Deputy Internal Security Minister Noh Omar said he was sorry, accepted the reprimand by Premier Abdullah Ahmad Badawi 'with an open heart,' and will be more cautious in making statements.

"I thank the prime minister for his constructive views and will be more cautious when making statements in future," Bernama quoted Noh as saying today.

In defending the police force over an incident where a woman was allegedly forced to strip and perform ear-squats in front of a police woman, Noh had said foreign visitors should return to their own countries if they felt Malaysian police were cruel.

Abdullah had said Noh's statement did not reflect government policy as the country welcomed tourists and visitors seeking medical treatment, education or business opportunities.

Abdullah promised no cover-up of the incident and has ordered an independent commission of inquiry to be formed to investigate the claims of abuse.