How Magnanimous of YB Tiong — Finally, an Apology Worth Toasting To (Minus the Champagne)

How Magnanimous of YB Tiong — Finally, an Apology Worth Toasting To (Minus the Champagne)


11 Oct 2025 • 7:30 PM MYT


Mihar Dias
A behaviourist by training, a consultant and executive coach by profession

Image Credit: Borneo Post

By Mihar Dias October 2025


At long last, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has done what few politicians in Malaysia have the humility — or the humour — to do: apologise. Not deflect, not deny, not declare “taken out of context,” but actually admit a mistake over the now-infamous “bubbly” gala dinner that had the Prime Minister fuming. Borneo Post


For a week, the Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister was in the hot seat after the frothy fiasco of serving alcohol at what was assumed to be a government event.


The PM himself had to step in, reminding his ministers — and perhaps the rest of Putrajaya — that “no alcohol” means precisely that. No exceptions, no excuses, no “just a sip after the speeches.” Borneo Post


Tiong’s apology came with a tinge of regret and, dare we say, sincerity. “I admit my mistake,” he said in Parliament. Borneo Post


Those four words are rarer than a tax rebate for ordinary Malaysians. He even clarified that the event had turned into a private function and should have been announced as such. One might imagine that had he made that declaration earlier, the champagne wouldn’t have bubbled into controversy.


Still, credit where it’s due. The minister didn’t hide behind his ministry, nor did he blame an overzealous protocol officer. Instead, he took responsibility — publicly and respectfully — after a stern reminder from Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim that guidelines exist for a reason.

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It’s not the apology itself that deserves applause, but the tone and timing of it. Tiong’s move demonstrates that even seasoned politicians can, under the right pressure, model a bit of accountability.


For a government that’s often accused of being tone-deaf, this is a welcome note of contrition — even if it came after a loud scolding from the maestro himself.


And let’s not forget: the Global Travel Meet still raked in RM420 million in transactions and drew 600 international participants. Borneo Post


Not bad for an event that nearly went flat over what was poured into the glasses.


So yes, YB Tiong, your apology is accepted — and appreciated. Next time, perhaps serve sparkling water instead. It makes for clearer judgment, lighter headlines, and a much easier morning after.

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Probably the most effective and productive minister in PMX's cabinet 👍👍👍😀