KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian-born comedian Ronny Chieng has received mixed reactions over his incendiary comments aimed at Singaporeans.
In a recent Instagram Story, Chieng, 38, said it is a "mistake" to listen to any Singaporean about current affairs aside from former Singapore Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.
The United States-based star characterised Singaporeans as "Karens" – a slang used to describe people who are entitled and demanding.
Chieng wrote: "It's a mistake to listen to any Singaporean about current affairs other than Mr Lee Kuan Yew. Many are Karens who think they have all the answers despite having zero perspective on the world."
Chieng concluded his remarks by giving a nod to a popular Singaporean dish: "Great chilli crab though."
His statement ignited a flurry of discussions amongst Singaporeans.
While some were offended by Chieng's comments, others defended his right to share his opinions about the country given his upbringing there.
The Crazy Rich Asians star studied in Singapore, where his mother is based.
Other Singaporean netizens defended Chieng, and reasoned that they should not take his words to heart as making controversial jokes was nothing unusual for a stand-up comedian especially one in the United States.