Rela members urge Shafie to retract alleged disparaging remarks

GEORGE TOWN: A group representing the People's Volunteer Corps (Rela) members in Penang have demanded Parti Warisan Sabah president Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal retract an alleged disparaging remark he made of the force.
Its head Robin Yew in a press conference last night said Shafie's remarks were disrespectful and made light of Rela's efforts.
He said it was totally wrong for any politician irrespective of their political background to look down on Rela's capability.
In the clip, Shafie who was speaking at a Warisan gathering in Tuaran allegedly said Rela members are only good for directing traffic and manning guard duty at wedding receptions.
However, it has been reported that Shafie has since clarified his remarks to the police and said that his remarks concern the broader security of the Sabah state.
He also said his statement had been taken out of context as he only questioned what is the role of Rela members in the EssZone (Eastern Sabah Security Zone).
Yew, however, remains unconvinced and is adamant in wanting Shafie to retract the statement and give an explanation out of respect to Rela members.
"We feel insulted by Shafie's remarks," he added.
A police report might also be lodged if no apology is issued," said Yew.
Chris Chua, who oversees administration duty in Rela concurred. He also urged Shafie to respect the volunteer unit.
He said all of them were well-trained and even attended a compulsory 10-day course for physical training and theory classes
Such uncalled remarks made were deemed disrespectful to Rela and should be condemned at all cost.
"Do not simply tick us off. Some of our members consist of even ex-servicemen and professionals," he added.