The organiser of an event in Malacca yesterday has apologised for serving pork for Muslim members of the press.

Chai Siong Siow, the secretary of the Society for the Protection and Development of Agriculture Malaysia, said it was an honest mistake.

"We have sent out invitations to members of the media but they did not confirm their attendance.

"We only received replies from the Chinese press, like Nanyang (Siang Pau), China Press and Sin Chew Daily. So we only prepared tables for them," he told Malaysiakini when contacted.

Earlier today, Utusan Malaysia had reported that several members of the media were upset with the incident at the Pay Fong school in Malacca, where pork dishes were served on tables where Muslims were seated.

Chai, however, clarified that the organisers had, in fact, allocated five tables for halal food, out of the 50 tables at the venue. The food was even prepared in a halal manner, he noted.

"Muslim reporters should have come to the front tables for the halal food," he said, further stressing his regret.

"(Regardless), I am sorry."