[Sportschosun Jang Jong-ho] A Malaysian woman who sparked controversy after posting a video on social networking service that mocked Chinese people while traveling has finally bowed her head in apology. According to Chinese media outlets, including Shangguan News, Malaysian blogger A recently drew fierce criticism after making insulting remarks toward locals in a video filmed during a trip to China.
In the released video, she was seen covering her nose in front of the camera and reportedly saying, "Chinese people smell bad" and "Chinese people do not bathe often." The clip quickly spread across social networking service and angered Chinese internet users.
According to some witnesses, she and her companions were involved in a near-physical altercation with passengers while using a local bus in China, and an elderly passenger was reportedly nearly knocked over.
After the video was posted on Chinese social networking service, many internet users condemned her, saying, "She did not respect another country's culture" and "This is clearly an act of insult." Some also pointed out that her behavior and remarks in public showed a lack of basic civic awareness.
As the controversy grew, A issued an official apology through her social media account.
She said, "While on vacation in China, I reacted wrongly in a moment of emotion," and added, "I deeply regret my remarks and feel very ashamed of myself."
She continued, "I sincerely apologize to everyone who felt uncomfortable because of the video," and said, "I am willing to take full responsibility for all the consequences that followed."
She also explained, "The video in question was not planned in advance or staged intentionally," adding, "I had no intention of insulting or belittling anyone, and I never meant to stir up conflict between countries."
She further said, "This incident has led me to deeply reflect on my own behavior," and added, "From now on, I will be more careful with my words and actions and act responsibly on socially sensitive issues."
Jang Jong-ho, bellho@sportschosun.com
