IPOH: Tycoon Tan Sri Koon Yew Yin was hauled up by police today to have his statement recorded over his insulting remarks towards the country’s armed forces.
The Ipoh-born businessman arrived at the Jelapang police station here at about 3pm and was seen leaving at 5.30pm.
His lawyer, Leong Cheok Keng, who is also Malim Nawar assemblyman, was also present when the statement was recorded.
Koon said he would not be called for second time to have his statement taken as he had given his full co-operation to the police.
“Police told me don’t say anything, I can’t say anything. The police are still investigating,” he said.
The case is being investigated under Section 505(c) of the Penal Code for causing public mischief and Section 233 of the Multimedia Act 1998.
On Aug 12, Koon wrote on his blog that armed forces personnel should replace foreign workers at Felda plantations as one of the means to address the country’s bloated civil service.
He claimed that the armed forces personnel are doing nothing except for eating and sleeping, and many have never fired a shot except during target practice.
His remarks irked various quarters, including leaders from both the government and opposition, and non-governmental organisations which described the statement as disrespectful.
On Sunday, following backlash from all quarters, Koon issued a public apology on his blog to the armed forces over his statement.
“To this end, I would like to extend my deepest and sincerest apologies to every person who has served and is currently serving the armed forces proudly.
“I regret the tone of the statement but it was not my intention to defame or belittle the army. I completely retract my statement and apologise for my mistake,” he added.