Assemblyman apologises for ‘punching’ former party colleague

 

Sarifuddin Hata shown in a video clip approaching fellow assembly member Norazlinah Arif at the Sabah state assembly building on Wednesday.

PETALING JAYA: 

Sabah state assemblyman, Sarifuddin Hata (Warisan-Merotai) has apologised to Kunak assemblyman Norazlinah Arif for allegedly punching her at the state assembly building on Wednesday night.

Sarifuddin Hata.

Norazlinah, who switched from Warisan to Gabungan Rakyat Sabah, had lodged a police report claiming that Sarifuddin punched her on her right shoulder while she was leaving the building.

She said the impact caused her to turn and take one step back. She also said her shoulder and arm were still hurting from the incident.

Norazlinah Arif.

Sarifuddin later took to Facebook to apologise, saying he was just joking and did not mean to harm her. He also admitted that he might have been too rough, saying he was rushing for a press conference when he “tapped” her on the shoulder. “I hope you forgive me,” he said.

Norazlinah, a two-term assemblyman, later said she forgave Sarifuddin, adding that this incident should serve as a lesson. - FMT