‘Regrettable when a Datuk breaks law’

KUANTAN: Those with Datuk Seri and Datuk titles conferred by the Pahang palace should be aware of the weight behind the awards.

Regent of Pahang Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah yesterday expressed regret that some individuals with the titles, including artistes, got on the wrong side of the law.

He said when these individuals were conferred the titles, they should know they came with conditions and an ethical code.

“If you ask me, I want to revoke all the awards. I am disappointed when individuals with the Datuk title go against the law.”

He was speaking after visiting victims whose homes were destroyed in a fire in Taman Sungai Isap 2 here on Tuesday evening.

On Tuesday, actor and film director Datuk Farid Kamil Zahari, 37, claimed trial to four charges, including causing grievous hurt, committing indecent behaviour and using criminal force against a public servant.

Farid Kamil was conferred the Darjah Indera Mahkota Pahang, which carries the title Datuk, at Istana Abu Bakar in Pekan in Dec 16 last year.

Tengku Abdullah said if the ethical code had been violated, the committee should take action.

“I do not wish to punish anyone with the Datuk title if they commit an offence. However, if there are those who are aware of their act and want to return the royal awards, that will be more polite.

“We do not want to punish anyone, but it is they who have made a mistake.”