KUALA LUMPUR: PKR vice-president Tian Chua has apologised to the Orang Asli community in Cameron Highlands after a senator from his party allegedly threatened village chiefs to support Pakatan Harapan in the by-election.
Tian Chua said PKR does not endorse any methods involving coercion, threats or enticement of voters in elections.
"I urge our leaders to be extra cautious and sensitive to public sentiment, as well as be mindful of the law during the election campaign.
"On behalf of Keadilan, I sincerely apologise to the Orang Asli community who were offended by any careless statements made by our party," he said in a statement today.
Tian Chua also said he hoped all polemics and rhetorics would be put to an end.
"Let's focus on debating about the people's interests and use a fair platform to achieve victory for the sake of the country's progress," he added.
Tian Chua stressed that PKR respects the rights of the of village chiefs and the Orang Asli to support any political parties.
He also said they could support any parties without being restricted by political funding or appointments by the federal government.
"In general, village chiefs, community leaders and civil servants are free to vote the party they support.
"Federal funding or appointments should not stop recipients from supporting the political party of their choice."
On Friday, Senator Bob Manolan Mohd courted controversy after he allegedly threatened the Orang Asli community during a dialogue session in Pos Betau, Jelai, near Cameron Highlands.
He is alleged to have said that their Tok Batin might lose their salaries and posts if they did not support PH.
He drew flak from the Tok Batin and rival political parties for allegedly fishing for votes by issuing threats.
Following this, Pahang Umno Youth lodged a police report against Bob Manolan for threatening the leaders of the Orang Asli community.
The senator, however, denied making such a statement.