KOTA KINABALU: September, 2026 – Noorazli has moved to defuse the controversy following his speech at the 2026 UMNO General Assembly by expressing his willingness to apologise if his delivery caused any misunderstanding or offended anyone, particularly Christians.
In a media statement yesterday, Noorazli said he acknowledged the reaction to a story he shared during his speech, but explained that it was used as an analogy to convey lessons on focus, perseverance and wisdom in achieving goals.
He stressed that the analogy was not intended to insult, belittle or make fun of any individual, belief or religion.
According to Noorazli, the willingness to apologise was expressed with full humility if his delivery caused misunderstanding or hurt the feelings of any party, particularly Christians.
He acknowledged that references to religious figures or matters could trigger different interpretations, especially in Malaysia’s multi-religious and multi-belief society.
Following this, Noorazli said he took the matter as a lesson to be more careful in choosing analogies and presenting views in future.
He also stressed his commitment to respecting every religion and belief, and to upholding harmony, mutual respect and understanding in a plural society.
Noorazli hoped the explanation would ease the misunderstanding that arose and help preserve harmony and mutual respect among followers of religions.
