16/11: Badruddin says sorry to all women

New Straits Times

DATUK Badruddin Amiruldin (BN-Jerai) has profusely apologised to women in the country following the furore he had created as a result of his remark at the Umno general assembly.

"I did not mean to be sexist or vulgar. I was, as the Malays say, terlajak (carried away)," he said at the lobby yesterday.

Badruddin said he had never intended to offend the delegates or any woman.

"I have daughters and women are an integral part of my election and service machinery in Jerai. I apologise to women if they feel offended and I am sincere."

Badruddin's apology over his remark at the Umno assembly came a day after Karpal Singh (DAP-Bukit Gelugor) had warned that he would make an issue of it.

Karpal, quoting a New Straits Times report on Wed-nesday, said Badruddin had interjected with his sexist remark when delegate Zaleha Hussin spoke about uniforms worn by AirAsia stewardesses.

Zaleha was relating how a friend had boarded the airline and said how uncomfortable it was looking at a seated stewardess with bare legs, thighs and calves.

At this point, Badruddin struck with his sexist remark.

"Yes, we can see a tunnel under her skirt," he was quoted as saying.

Karpal had called on Bad-ruddin to apologise to women within seven days.

"Otherwise we will make this a public issue," he had said.