Hasan showing the false report at the Facebook website. — Bernama photo
KUALA PILAH: Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Hasan Malek yesterday denied a Facebook report that he was stepping down following the hike in petrol prices today.
Hasan claimed certain quarters had falsified his Facebook account, and had put in the entry that he would resign if the prices of petrol (RON95, RON97 and diesel) go up on April 1.
“The report is false and I deeply regret it.
“This is something very sad as the social media facility is being abused.
“I deeply regret it which is aimed at raising restlessness among the people.
“I don’t need to be asked by anybody to resign. I am ready to withdraw if I don’t get the trust of the leadership.
“I hope the people can evaluate and do not believe the report,” he told reporters after a ceremony to hand over aid to the Village Development and Security Committees in the Kuala Pilah Parliamentary constituency here
According to the report, “Datuk Seri Hasan Malek gives his assurance there would be no hike in the prices of petrol and diesel soon, despite a slight increase of the fuels in the market.
“Currently, the retail price of RON95 stays at RM1.95 a litre, RON97 at R2.25 a litre while diesel at RM1.95 a litre. If the false report is true, I, readily resign from my post as KPDNKK minister, effective immediately, without prejudice, in the interest of the people”.
Hasan said his role as Minister of KPDNKK had somewhat been tarnished in the perception and views of the public, due to the report.
“I strongly state that the report is false and is a defamation aimed at triggering tension among the people in the country.
“I have enough proof to state that this is the deeds of those irresponsible quarters with bad intentions. KPDNKK and I will take legal action on these disseminators of slander,” he said.
Hasan said a police report had been lodged at the Precinct 7 Police Station in Putrajaya yesterday morning and a complaint had also been lodged with the Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM).
“So, I urge that the matter be promptly investigated and acted upon,” he said.
Meanwhile, he said the Goods and Services Tax (GST) would be implemented today, reiterating that his ministry and the police were ready.
“We will face any challenge that will take place. I am confident at the commitment and agreement of numerous quarters at the implementation of GST.
“As such, I am highly confident GST can be implemented with the support of all,” he added. — Bernama