Ismail Sabri again says he regrets "boycott" statement

PETALING JAYA: Twelve days after the controversy erupted, Agriculture and Agro Based Industry Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob reiterated that he regretted his "boycott Chinese businesses" comments on Facebook in a statement late Thursday.

"My comments have gone viral. I regret the statement had led to racial sentiments," he said.

Ismail Sabri said he did not intend to create any racial tension and polarization because his intention when making the comment was clearly intended to traders who are still reluctant to lower the price of goods, irrespective of race.

“The matter has been discussed in depth at the Cabinet meeting, chaired by the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

“The Prime Minister also urged all parties to focus on efforts to foster national unity. Cabinet has agreed that this issue should be stopped immediately because Barisan Nasional will continue to defend and protect the interests of all communities,” he said.

He urged all parties to move forward and focus on efforts to reduce the price of goods.

Ismail Sabri's latest statement came hours after a "joint statement" was circulated issued by him and Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai. Liow has denied any knowledge of this statement.