KUALA LUMPUR: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing has refuted claims of consuming alcohol and pork within the office premises.
Expressing bewilderment and frustration at the malicious nature of the claims, he also challenged the unnamed critic to come forward to resolve the matter.
"I challenge and urge those who harbour certain agendas not to hide behind their keyboards to spread rumours and slanders." he said in a statement.
The rumours, propagated via WhatsApp messages, alleged inappropriate behaviour, including the consumption of alcohol and pork in the office, coupled with insinuations of disrespect towards civil servants.
Tiong said these claims were baseless, attributing them to an unknown accuser who purportedly served in the Health Ministry.
He extended an invitation to the accuser to come forward within two weeks to address the matter directly, and did not rule out the possibility of legal action.
Tiong also clarified that the office has no assigned cleaners, and dishes are usually cleaned by those who use them.
Additionally, he emphasised a consistent meal routine in the office, typically comprising local dishes and occasionally meals from hotel restaurants in Putrajaya when hosting foreign guests.
Regarding the acceptance of gifts containing alcohol, he clarified that the gifts were not personal belongings and were handled discreetly.
"As a public office representative, I cannot refuse these gifts but at the same time, it is would be highly inappropriate for me to take them home... As much as possible, we try our best to transfer them to other recipients such as foreign officers or guests during dinners or casual events. What is wrong with all this?" he said.
He urged individuals not to exploit sensitive issues for personal gain and to refrain from actions that could incite racial tensions.