Sanusi's belated apology shouldn't be example to others: PKR Youth leader

A PKR Youth leader has slammed the call to emulate Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor’s apology to Selangor Ruler, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.

Pahang PKR Youth chief Chan Chin Kuang said no leaders should emulate Sanusi’s gesture as an example as the latter only apologised more than a year after he was hauled to court for allegedly uttering seditious remarks about the monarch.

Sanusi (above) had pleaded not guilty to the charges.

“It is the responsibility of all leaders to be cautious in their actions and words to avoid controversy and maintain public trust in the royal institution.

“A sincere and responsible apology is important, but proactive measures to prevent such incidents from recurring are even more crucial,” Chan said in a statement today.

Chan’s remarks came against the backdrop of Pahang PAS deputy commissioner, Andansura Rabu, who said Sanusi should be praised for being willing to humble himself and pleading for forgiveness against Sultan Sharafuddin.

The Islamist party leader said that the act should be emulated by leaders, saying that one must be open to criticism and be wise in dealing with issues prudently.

Avoid racist rhetoric

Refuting further, Chan, who is also Semambu assemblyperson, said that leaders must avoid spewing racist rhetoric, hatred, or any form of insults towards any party.

“The country needs politics that unites all races and societal segments, not divisive politics,” he said.

While supporting the statement of the Selangor ruler, Chan highlighted the monarch’s point about how leaders should be mindful of their words and avoid actions that can divide society.

He then urged all parties to respect the royal institution, which is a symbol of unity and sovereignty of the nation, to practise mature politics, and to always uphold national unity and harmony.

Sanusi on Wednesday (Sept 25) publicly apologised to Sultan Sharafuddin - 14 months after his speech at an election campaign which contained “disrespectful” remarks.

The apology was also a day before the case management of his related sedition charge.

On July 18 last year, Sanusi claimed trial to two charges at the Sessions Court in Selayang, Selangor.

Sanusi’s initial statement on July 11, 2023 - made in Selayang while on the Selangor election campaign trail - incurred the wrath of the palace and also saw more than 20 police reports lodged against him, including by the Selangor Royal Council.

Sultan Sharafuddin yesterday issued a statement pardoning Sanusi, but also advised the senior PAS politician to be more mindful and not be too emotional.

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