Kedah exco apologises to Sabahans over Gardenia quip

Kedah executive councillor Mansor Zakaria said he had no intention of insulting the people of Sabah. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA: A Kedah executive councillor has apologised over remarks he made at the state assembly yesterday, which some found to be demeaning to Sabahans.

In a now viral video, Mansor Zakaria, the housing, local government and health exco, was heard saying – in jest – that candidates on the campaign trail for the Sabah polls could hand out Gardenia bread.

The quip is likely a reference to East Malaysians buying Gardenia bread in large quantities when they travel to West Malaysia due to the price difference.

However, Mansor’s joke led to brickbats, including from Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh.

Following the criticisms, the Kuala Ketil assemblyman issued a public apology and retracted his remarks.

“I had no intention of insulting the people of Sabah.

“And I do not wish to prolong the issue. I would like to sincerely apologise for my remarks and retract it if it had hurt their feelings,” he said in a separate video.

Meanwhile, PAS Youth chief Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden praised Mansor for apologising, saying it was magnanimous of him to do so.

“Unlike those who are always slipping up but never once apologise for their actions. I salute you (Mansor).”

PAS is hoping to secure its first seat in Sabah and will be fielding five candidates for the Nov 29 polls.