Prompted to resign due to the bilingual signboard controversy, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dato Seri Tiong King Sing stated that he cannot satisfy everyone.
On the contrary, he welcomes opinions from all parties to improve the shortcomings in departmental and tourism management.
“This is very normal, we can't make everyone happy... They want me to resign? What exactly have I done wrong? We are also very clear that some of them have served as deputy ministers... Ask her what she did as deputy minister, what changes did she make?”
“What has she done for transformation? I hope you (Members of Parliament) can provide valuable information and suggestions in Parliament.”
“Tell me where my shortcomings are and where I can improve. Don't criticize aimlessly.”
Tiong King Sing responded to this issue in an interview with Astro AWANI and other media. Former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia Member of Parliament Datuk Mas Ermieyati, criticized Tiong King Sing’s inappropriate bilingual signboard remarks and suggested replacing Tiong with a position as Minister of Enforcement or heading the Domestic Trade Ministry during the debate stage in the House of Representatives on the 2025 Budget (Tourism Ministry) on the 25th of last month.
On November 24, Tiong King Sing stated that the recent controversy over bilingual signboard enforcement has unnecessarily stirred emotions, significantly displeased foreign tourists, and generated negative perceptions, including questions about whether Malaysia is a racist or religious extremist country.
Multilingual Signboards Demonstrate Friendliness
Tiong King Sing also pointed out that multilingual signboards demonstrate friendliness to foreign tourists and are a core element of Malaysia's cultural appeal.
Moreover, several opposition party MPs, including YB Wong Ting Hwang from Marang, also criticized Tiong King Sing. Tiong was also criticized for allegedly damaging the image of the city council by denouncing the “overly harsh” actions of Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) on bilingual signboard enforcement.
Regarding this issue, Tiong King Sing stated that he firmly insists on the necessity of setting up bilingual signboards to facilitate foreign tourists visiting Malaysia.
He also advised some figures, including former Health Minister Khairy, not to associate the signboard issue with politics.
“He was also a minister and part of the government before. Don't try to manipulate this political issue.”
“If there is any real dissatisfaction, come to me, we can discuss it. If not, please provide more constructive and useful suggestions for the country.”
Meanwhile, Tiong King Sing suggested that Kuala Lumpur City Hall avoid being “overly harsh” and notify relevant parties before removing signs without the Malay language.
Previously, Kuala Lumpur City Hall carried out large-scale operations in several areas including Pudu, Pantai Pudu, and Petaling Street to dismantle signs that did not use Malay.