IPOH: The Perak Islamic Religious Department (JAIPk) has taken disciplinary action against one of its officers accused of posting a derogatory statement about Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek on social media.
In a statement, JAIPk said the action was in accordance with Regulation 19(1) of the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993, intended to serve as a lesson for other civil servants and to encourage more ethical use of social media.
JAIPk expressed regret over the statement, adding that the words and opinions shared were the officer's personal views and did not reflect the stance of the department.
"The department apologises to all parties for this issue and will take firm measures to ensure such incidents do not recur," the statement read.
Previously, former Titi Serong State Assemblyman and former State Executive Councillor Hasnul Zulkarnain Abd Munaim questioned the officer's comments on the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and deemed them insulting to Fadhlina.
It is understood that the JAIPk officer has issued a public apology through a video posted on social media, acknowledging and apologising the misstep.