The Economist has ruled out any likelihood that it would issue an apology for its recent survey o­n Malaysia which has offended several Barisan Nasional leaders.

The London-based magazine today said it will not be running an apology o­n the matter, despite a demand issued through the Malaysian media by Acting Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. ( photo )

Abdullah had threatened to take action against the news magazine, including imposing a ban, unless it complies with the government's demand. However, he had also stated that the government would not be writing an official protest note to the magazine.