SINGAPORE, June 8 — Singapore’s High Commissioner to Malaysia today apologised to Malaysians for the “gratuitously offensive comments” about the country — including missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 — made by Singapore-born stand-up comedian Jocelyn Chia.
In a statement early Thursday morning, Vanu Gopala Menon said that the Singapore Government does not condone words or actions that cause hurt to others, adding that he was “appalled” by Chia’s comments.
Chia, who is no longer a Singaporean, had made jokes about Malaysia in an 89-second video clip posted to one of her social media accounts on Tuesday.
These included comments about flight MH370, as well as statements about Malaysia being a developing country that was once “abandoned” by Singapore.
In his statement, Menon said that Chia’s comments did not in any way reflect Singapore’s views.
“As our closest neighbour, Singapore and Malaysia enjoy a strong and multi-faceted relationship, with deep and cross-cutting ties. We also have unique historical and close people-to-people ties.”
“Comments such as those made by Chia are unhelpful and undermine the close trust and friendship that both our countries and peoples enjoy,” he added.
“I sincerely apologise to all Malaysians for her hurtful remarks,” said Menon.
TODAY has reached out to Chia and her management for comment. — TODAY
