Bung escapes punishment after apologising for F-word

Bung Moktar was among two MP asked to leave the August hall after they refused to heed Mohd Rashid's call not to interrupt proceedings.

KUALA LUMPUR: Controversial Kinabatangan lawmaker Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin has managed to escape parliamentary punishment for using the F-word in the Dewan Rakyat two months ago, after he issued an apology.

The motion to cite the Barisan Nasional MP to Parliament's Rights and Privileges Committee was withdrawn by Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamarudin after the apology was made in the House on Thursday (Oct 18).

“I am very regretful for using the word and sincerely apologise to the Speaker and the House, particularly women MPs.

“I give my assurance that it will not happen again in the future and hope my sincere apology is accepted," he said when addressing the House.

Zuraida said she agreed to withdraw her motion and had reminded Bung to keep his emotions in check during future debates.

Speaker Datuk Mohamad Ariff Md Yusof took note of Zuraida's decision to withdraw her motion against Bung.

“The motion has been withdrawn, and I consider the matter settled once and for all through the spirit of togetherness from both sides,” he said.

The Sabahan lawmaker used the F-word against Willie Mongin (PH-Puncak Borneo) after the latter questioned if Bung had gone to a casino.

The incident happened when on Aug 7 when the Sales Tax Bill was being debated.

The motion was filed by Zuraida who said Bung had used a rude word which was offensive to MPs, especially women, and tarnished Parliament's image.