Malaysian Politicians Say the Darndest Things - compiled by Amir Muhammad

"Malaysian Politicians Say the Darndest Things", a compilation of all the foot-in-the-mouth statements made by our politicians over the years. The compilation was the bright idea of Amir Muhammad. Some say the most ignorant things and some make sexist or racist statements, often hurting others and while we may laugh at them, it's a national tragedy as these are the very leaders who are elected by us and who are supposed to represent our interest. So, what has gone wrong?

Here are some examples:

1. "They (taxi drivers who cheat tourists) should be lined up against the wall and shot. They are the new enemies, the same as communists. I am not joking, this is a serious matter. If they can be shot, all the better."
- Culture, Arts and Tourism Minister Kadir Sheikh Fadzir, commenting on a report that about 70% of taxi drivers in Kuala Lumpur would take tourists for a ride, and not in a good way. (Berita Harian, 26, August 2002).

2. "Malaysian men are easy to service. (Their) libido lasts only five minutes. A shorter period would mean more customers and that makes it more lucrative for the sex workers to conduct their activities here."
- Selangor Menteri Besar Mohd Khir Toyo, explaining why there were many foreign prostitutes in Malaysia. At a forum for Wanita MCA members. (The Malay Mail, 14 February, 2003).

3. "Many roads are closed for pasar malam (night markets). Why can't we close the roads for our Mat Rempit once a week?"
- Putra UMNO Chairman Abdul Azeez Abdul Aziz, suggesting that the illegal bike racers (whom he had previously dubbed "an asset to the country") should become a tourist attraction. (The New Straits Times, 28 August, 2006). These racers had often been accused of criminal behaviour and the same perception still holds today. But as they comprised mainly young Malay men of no known political affiliation, UMNO did not want to alienate them.