Singapore apologises to Malaysians for S'pore-born comedian Jocelyn Chia's 'gratuitously offensive' MH370 joke
In an 89-second video clip posted to one of her social media accounts on Tuesday (June 6), Ms Chia joked about Malaysia being a developing country that is far behind and was once "abandoned" by Singapore.
SINGAPORE — Singapore’s Foreign Affairs Minister and High Commissioner to Malaysia on Thursday (June 8) apologised to Malaysians for the “gratuitously offensive comments” made by Singapore-born stand-up comedian Jocelyn Chia about the country, including missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370.
In a tweet on Thursday morning, Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan said that he was “appalled” by Ms Chia’s “horrendous” statements.
“She certainly does not speak for Singaporeans. We treasure our ties with family and friends in Malaysia, and are sorry for the offence and hurt caused to all Malaysians,” said Dr Balakrishnan.
In a separate statement, High Commissioner Vanu Gopala Menon said that the Singapore Government does not condone words or actions that cause hurt to others, adding that he, too, was appalled by Ms Chia’s comments.
Ms Chia, who is a naturalised American, 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, issued early on Thursday morning, Mr Menon said that Ms Chia’s comments did not in any way reflect Singapore’s views.
“I am appalled by the gratuitously offensive comments made by stand-up performer Jocelyn Chia,” he said.
“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.”
MALAYSIA'S FOREIGN MINISTER WEIGHS IN
Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir also expressed regret and condemned Ms Chia’s actions, reported Malaysian news agency Bernama on Thursday.
In a statement issued on Wednesday night, Dr Zambry said that Ms Chia’s act showed a total lack of sensitivity and empathy towards Malaysians and the victims’ families, the report said.
“This video also clearly depicts behaviour that is contrary to the values of Asian countries that are known for their manners and morals.”
“I believe this is not a stance or action accepted by any country let alone reflect the official stance of any government,” said Dr Zambry, adding that any action or attempt like this should be stopped.
TODAY has reached out to Ms Chia and her management for comment.
As of 11am on Thursday, Ms Chia’s website and social media pages appeared to have been taken down.
