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Bersatu deputy president Ahmad Faizal Azumu, who is also the minister for youth and sports, said the division’s deputy chief has submitted his resignation letter.
“He will also be making a public apology,” Faizal said, according to Malaysiakini.
Utusan Malaysia said the divisional leader, Borhanuddin Che Rahim, of Pasir Puteh, Kelantan, had apologised for his remarks, saying he did not intend to insult the Indian community.
He said the derogatory term he had applied was commonly used in Kelantan to refer to Indian people.
“It was a mistake and I did it without thinking of the consequences (of using the term). I take back what I said and apologise to all Malaysians, especially those affected by the posting. I will improve on my behaviour,” he was quoted as saying.
The controversy arose after screenshots of the comment by a Facebook user named “Borhan Che Rahim” went viral. In making the derogatory remarks, the man had questioned from which estate the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) had recruited Kisona.
Kisona Selvaduray, 23, from Seremban, is a member of the Malaysian team which entered the semi-final of the Sudirman Cup mixed-team championships in Vantaa, Finland. Malaysia defeated Indonesia 3-2 on Friday, but Kisona lost her singles match against Gregoria Mariska Tunjung by 22-20, 18-21, 21-19.
Earlier today, Faizal had condemned the use of the racial slur against her. He said it was unacceptable, especially as the player fought hard to make Malaysia proud at the prestigious tournament.
The badminton association has also condemned the racial remarks, while MIC Youth has filed a police report, calling for an investigation into the matter.
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