translation
The management of Radio Era was hauled up by the Information Ministry this morning after the station had mistakenly announced on air the 'demise' of Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz last night.The Agong is presently undergoing medical treatment in Singapore.
When contacted, a station source told malaysiakini that the management was in the midst of having a meeting to discuss the matter and will issue a statement soon. The meeting was also attended by AMP Radio Networks general manager Borhanuddin Osman.
AMP Radio Networks runs five FM radio networks including Radio Era.
After Radio Era made the announcement, which was followed by a recital of holy Quranic verses, the station realised its blunder and apologised throughout the night to Malaysians but not to the Agong or the royal family.
It is believed that the station received news of Agong's 'demise' through a prank call.
Medical check-up
Meanwhile, press secretary to Information Minister, Zukri Valentino was reported as saying that the minister, Khalil Yaakob, was surprised that the announcement was made without first confirming it with the relevant authorities.
The Agong's private secretary Raja Hydar Raja Iskandar told
He said the Agong was in a stable condition after a second check-up prior to a minor surgery on Saturday.
Two days ago, malaysiakini reported that the new American envoy, Marie T Huhtala, would have to wait until the Agong returns home from a medical check-up in Singapore before she can officially assume her post as the US ambassador here.
