Tan Sri title: Nik Abduh says Mahathir didn't insult Nik Aziz

 

Family members of the late Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat have taken no offence over former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's spontaneous remarks on the recent 'Tan Sri' title awarded to their patriarch.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Utusan Malaysia quoted one of Nik Aziz's sons, Nik Mohamad Abduh, as saying he is confident that the public did not misunderstand Mahathir's sarcastic remarks.

He said this was despite alleged attempts by cybertroopers to play up the issue.

"On behalf of the family, we don't feel anything because we can easily understand. So there is no need for further comments on this matter," Nik Abduh (above, left) was quoted as saying.

Mahathir had on June 6 commented on the former Kelantan menteri besar's 'Tan Sri' title, which was also awarded to DAP stalwart Lim Kit Siang, saying that both individuals are now on the "same level".

Government’s approach

His remarks reportedly drew laughter from leaders present during the press conference, including PAS president Abdul Hadi

Several days later, a granddaughter of Nik Aziz caught public attention with her social media posting that stated her unhappiness over the award, as their family was supposedly told he would be honoured with the higher 'Tun' title instead.

Meanwhile, Nik Abduh said Mahathir's remarks on June 6 were actually meant as criticism of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's administration.

Stressing that his family understood it as such, Nik Abduh said Mahathir was only questioning the government's decision to honour Lim with the award.

"Mahathir's statement is not meant to insult or question the award for Nik Aziz.

"(Tun) Mahathir was giving a hint... he did not target Tok Guru (Nik Aziz) but more to criticising the government's approach," he said.

"He (Mahathir) is of the view that Nik Aziz's struggles cannot be placed at the same level as Kit Siang's. That's all," he said.

Nik Abduh, however, reportedly declined further comments over his niece's posting, beyond describing it as her personal opinion which was not shared by the family. - Mkini