The controversy surrounding Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has taken a fiery new turn after UMNO Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh lashed out in a scathing social media post — calling the minister’s explanation “bodoh” (stupid) and demanding answers from top Tourism Malaysia officials.
Dr Akmal’s comments came after Tiong defended himself over the now-viral photos showing him holding wine and beer glasses at a gala dinner, insisting the event was not an official government function but a private industry gathering.
However, Dr Akmal wasn’t buying it. In a blistering statement, he pointed out that the official invitation letter clearly stated the gala night dinner was organised by Tourism Malaysia, not a private company.
“The minister gave one answer, but the invitation letter clearly shows the gala night was organised by Tourism Malaysia. So, we want an explanation from the ministry’s secretary-general and director-general instead,” Dr Akmal wrote.
He went on to take a sharp jab at Tiong, suggesting the minister “did not really understand the question.”
Dr Akmal also warned that if Tiong’s reasoning were accepted, it would open the floodgates for other government events to be sponsored by private companies — allowing alcohol to be served under the guise of corporate collaboration.
“If this is allowed, then from now on, all official government programmes can get private companies to sponsor alcohol — using the government’s logo, agencies, and civil servants too, right? Bodoh!” he wrote in frustration.
The heated remarks add fuel to a growing storm around the incident, which has already drawn condemnation from PAS and UMNO religious councils, who accused Tiong of disrespecting Muslim sensitivities and breaching government protocol.
As the backlash intensifies, all eyes are now on Tourism Malaysia’s top officials to respond — and on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to decide whether the controversy will end in discipline or dismissal.
