See also Penang Umno backs Ahmad Ismail
GEORGE TOWN, Sept 5 - Penang opposition leader Datuk Azhar Ibrahim, who was at the press conference to show support for Bukit Bendera Umno head Datuk Ahmad Ismail, criticised the reporter from the Chinese newspaper who allegedly twisted Ahmad's words during the Permatang Pauh by-election campaign.
However, the state Umno secretary did not name the reporter but claimed that only one Chinese publication reported Ahmad's statement.
"What was written may lead to a racial riot. If such a thing happens, he is the first person that should be shot," he said to loud cheers from Umno supporters who packed the meeting room at Menara Umno here.
Azhar also called on the police to investigate the reporter to find out the truth.
"This issue was blown out of proportion just because of one idiotic reporter. Why should anyone believe him... did he ask Datuk Ahmad for an explanation," he said.
"Did he just write or record the speech? If there is a recording, he should show it to us... this is not a small matter," said the Penaga state assemblyman.
Journalists who were present at the press conference expressed shock with Azhar's comment but vowed not to be intimidated.
"It is a form of intimidation, but the threat will not change the way I do my work," said Low Chia Ming of Malaysiakini's Chinese edition.
Kwong Wah's Ang Yee Shuan also agreed. "I wasn't there at the rally, but I am sure there were other media representatives who can back the report," she told The Malaysian Insider.
Only Chinese newspapers reported Ahmad's remark at the rally on Aug 23 in Kampung Pelet near Bukit Mertajam.
Earlier, Ahmad said the reporter should apologise to every Malay and Muslim in the country for inciting racial hatred.
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