KOTA KINABALU: Datuk Verdon Bahanda expressed his displeasure regarding an incident in Kuala Lumpur where a security guard allegedly assaulted an e-hailing rider because of his Sabahan accent.
The Kudat MP stated that apart from the violent act against the rider, the discrimination based on his dialect was disgraceful.
He pointed out that Malaysia has already celebrated 60 years of its formation, but incidents like this are still occurring.
“This is unacceptable,” he emphasized in a widely shared video on social media.
“This issue must be treated seriously. It is an insult to national integration.
“As a Sabah MP, I am extremely disappointed. I will discuss this matter with other Sabahan MPs to determine if it should be brought up in the Dewan Rakyat,” Verdon added.
A police report has been filed regarding the incident, which reportedly took place at a building on Lingkaran TRX in Kuala Lumpur.
According to a Facebook post, the incident was triggered by a misunderstanding between the two individuals.
It is believed that the rider was denied entry into the premises but insisted on entering the building.
In the video clip, the security guard can be seen restraining the rider while questioning his nationality due to his Malay language being spoken in a Sabahan accent.
Contacted for comment, Dang Wangi Deputy OCPD Supt Nazron Abd Yusof stated that an investigation has been launched under Section 323 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing harm.
The police have identified a witness who will assist in the investigation.
However, subsequent posts on social media showed a photo of the e-hailing rider and his alleged assailant reconciling, indicating a resolution to the misunderstanding.
Nevertheless, Verdon urged the police to continue investigating the matter, as a mere apology will not effectively raise awareness among the public.
