Malaysia's State Secretary, Safar Untong, has clarified that Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah, the wife of the Prime Minister, did not request a car number plate bearing the words "Isteri YAB Perdana Menteri" (Wife of the Honorable Prime Minister) during her trip to Sabah. The statement aims to address the viral social media post that sparked controversy surrounding the special number plate used by Wan Azizah.
Explanation by State Secretary:
Datuk Seri Safar Untong, in his statement, acknowledges the circulation of an image featuring the vehicle plate number belonging to the Prime Minister's wife at a prominent hotel in Kota Kinabalu. He emphatically states, "The plate that was circulated was not at the request of Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah."
Safar further elaborates on the standard practice of the Sabah state government, which is responsible for providing vehicles to important guests visiting the region. These vehicles are assigned with number plates reflecting the respective guests' titles and positions.
Government's Responsibility in Providing Facilities:
The clarification emphasizes the responsibility of the Sabah state government in ensuring adequate transportation facilities for the Prime Minister, his wife, Deputy Prime Ministers, their spouses, as well as VIP guests during official visits and work-related trips to Sabah.
The Viral Social Media Controversy:
The image of Wan Azizah's vehicle with the special number plate quickly spread across social media platforms, triggering discussions and debates among netizens. However, the statement by the State Secretary aims to dispel any misconception that the plate was specifically requested by Wan Azizah herself.
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