KUCHING: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing is not done with replying to criticism over his public demeanour after drinking at gatherings.
In a Facebook post on Saturday (Nov 4) he broke it down to the simplest of terms for the benefit of especially elected representatives.
The Bintulu MP said in a nutshell it is all about connecting with the people minus all the officialdom and fluff that usually surrounds those holding public office.
He said as representatives of the people, they should aim to be approachable and genuinely connect with the people in order to truly understand the people’s concerns and aspirations.
“On the contrary, if politicians cannot put aside their ego and demand extensive concessions from the grassroots, disrupting the atmosphere of events for the sake of a VIP, and even impose changes on cultural customs to cater to their preferences, I believe such politicians will struggle to earn a place in the hearts of the people,” he asserted.
“Excessive self-importance will ultimately lead to rejection by the people, a lesson I believe Mohd Zin has experienced firsthand,” he said referring to former Works Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Zin Mohamed criticising his drinking behaviour as being ‘indecent’.
“Perhaps it is his inability to humble himself that led him to lose his way on the path to becoming a high-ranking political figure, creating a sense of detachment from the people that contributed to his defeat in past elections,” he said.
Tiong implored Mohd Zin to distinguish between celebration and approachability.
“Whether it’s the Gawai festival or the Mid-Autumn Festival, I make an effort to immerse myself in the community, including joining the children in Pelangai in joyful dances.
“They were thrilled, expressing that it was the first time a minister of my stature had bonded with them in such a way.
“What was once a delightful experience is now being sensationalised by extreme individuals for political gain.”
He said while Islam is the official religion of Malaysia, the Prime Minister had emphasised that the rights of people from various religious and cultural backgrounds are protected.
“Therefore, Mohd Zin should refrain from harshly criticising the cultural practices of non-Muslim communities, and he should not underestimate the noble traditions of Sarawak, which promote diversity and mutual respect. Maintaining an air of arrogance only leads to a harsher fall,” he added.
Tiong said he is now open to feedback from the public.
“And I will continue to approach the community with humility and serve the people as I always bear in mind that it is their trust and support that brought me where am I now.
“Again, I will leave it to the public to judge me on whether I can bring in the tourist numbers, not how much of an ‘extremist’ I am. I will look after everyone, especially Sarawak,” he added.
