Singapore diplomat 'appalled' by comedian's remarks on M'sia, MH370

 

Singapore’s High Commissioner to Malaysia Vanu Gopala Menon said he is appalled by the “gratuitously offensive comments” on Malaysia the missing flight MH370 made by comedian Jocelyn Chia.

He said the comedian’s statement does not in any way reflect Singapore’s view.

“I am appalled by the gratuitously offensive comments made by stand-up performer Jocelyn Chia. The Singapore government does not condone words or actions that cause harm or hurt to others and Chia, who is no longer Singaporean, does not in any way reflect our views.

“I sincerely apologise to all Malaysians for her hurtful remarks,” Vanu Gopala said in a statement today.

Chia reportedly mocked Malaysia and made fun of the MH370 tragedy in a recent comedy show titled ‘Singapore vs Malaysia’ held in New York, United States. Clips of the show have gone viral online.

Flight MH370 disappeared under mysterious circumstances on March 8, 2014. Searches have so far proven unfruitful and all 227 passengers and 12 crew members on board the flight are presumed dead.

Vanu Gopala said as closest neighbours, Singapore and Malaysia enjoy a strong and multi-faceted relationship with deep and cross-cutting ties while both countries also have unique historical and close people-to-people ties.

“Comments such as those made by Chia are unhelpful and undermine the close trust and friendship that both our countries and peoples enjoy,” he added.

Contrary to Asian values

Meanwhile, Malaysian Foreign Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir expressed regret and condemned Chia’s remarks, saying she showed a total lack of sensitivity and empathy towards Malaysians and the victims’ families.

Foreign Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir

“This video also clearly depicts behaviour that is contrary to the values of Asian countries that are known for their manners and morals.

“I believe this is not a stance or action accepted by any country, let alone reflect the official stance of any government,” he said, adding that any action or attempt like this should be stopped.

- Bernama