Chinese tourist in viral video urged to give full story of ‘extortion’

KUALA LUMPUR: The Chinese tourist who allegedly faced extortion in the city recently has been urged to come forward as soon as possible.

Malaysia-China Friendship and Mutual Aid Association adviser Datuk Seri Michael Chong said the incident, of which a video about it has gone viral on social media, only had one side of the story.

“The association is urging the tourist to come forward so that we can assist her and help get to the truth of the matter.

“The viral video only presented a possible version of the story, thus it is important that she come forward and explain the matter, including giving her statement to the police,” he told a press conference at Wisma MCA yesterday.

The real story behind it needs to be told as the alleged incident has tarnished the country’s reputation, he added.

Chong noted the role played by the association, that is to be a bridge between both nations and to assist their citizens.

“We hope the visitor will come forward, along with the ehailing driver who allegedly lent her RM100 to pay for the said extortion bid,” he said.

Chong, who is MCA Public Services and Complaints Depart-ment head, said the incident has caused considerable stress and anxiety to both countries.

He said the video is filled with claims without any actual proof.

If indeed the incident actually took place, Chong said the police have assured him that stern action would be taken against the bad apples.

He said association president James Ee is also among a panel of lawyers for the Chinese Embassy, while association vice-president Dr Cherry Wei works as the embassy’s liaison officer as well.

“The tourist has nothing to fear as all we want is to assist her,” he said.

Chong urged the visitor and the other individual to contact the association at 03-7982 7885 or e-mail [e-mail].

Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation chairman Tan Sri Tan Kean Soon, who was also at the press conference, said it is important that the issue be addressed, given the distress it has caused.

“I was part of the Malaysian delegation that visited China recently, and while there, many people in Beijing asked about the incident.

“We hope the tourist can come forward to verify the matter,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dang Wangi OCPD Asst Comm Noor Dellhan Yahaya said the police are still tracking down the relevant individuals, including the tourist, to assist them in their investigation.

“We are still searching for her with the embassy’s help, and the ehailing driver as well,” he said.

Police investigations have started after a video posted on social media alleged that a policeman had extorted money from a foreign woman.

Snippets of the video on TikTok showed the policeman stopping the person but it is cut off after he had asked for identification.