Barisan Nasional backbencher Badruddin Amiruldin, who came under fire for disparaging opposition politician Karpal Singh's disability last week, has apologised to him in Parliament.

Debating the Supply Bill 2008 this morning, Badruddin (BN-Jerai) apologised to Karpal (DAP-Bukit Gelugor) as well as "others who could have been offended" by his statement.

"I might have said something that could have offended certain parties during the argument with Karpal, and I would like to take this opportunity in the holy month of Syawal to say sorry to everyone," said Badruddin.

"At times, during the heat of an argument, we tend to say things that we don't mean. I'm actually a very loving and courteous person."

Explaning that Karpal is a good friend of his, Badruddin said: "I have even pushed his wheelchair when we celebrated his birthday in Parliament."

Not there to accept apology

However, Karpal was not in the House to accept Badruddin's apology. Fong Po Kuan (DAP-Batu Gajah), who represented Karpal, praised Badruddin for his action.

"You have just set a very good example (to everyone in the Dewan Rakyat). I will certainly pass the message to Karpal," she said.

Deputy Speaker Lim Si Cheng also praised Badruddin for tendering the apology.

Last week, Karpal had cited Badruddin as an example of MPs who use unparliamenary language.

Badruddin agrily retorted that Karpal was in a wheelchair because God has punished him for his arrogance. (Karpal's injury resulted from a car accident about two years ago.)

Opposition Leader Lim Kit Siang had given Badruddin until today to apologise and retract his statement, failing which he would submit a motion to refer him to the Parliamentary Committee of Privileges, which could take disciplinary action against errant MPs.