North Korean ambassador warned
No need to dignify envoy’s allegations against Govt, says Anifah
PUTRAJAYA: Datuk Seri Anifah Aman has warned North Korean Ambassador Kang Chol over his verbal attack against Malaysia’s handling of the Kim Jong-nam assassination probe but stopped short of saying if any action will be taken.
The Foreign Minister said while the world was aware that the investigation into the murder of the exiled half-brother or North Korean leader Kim Jong-un had been effective, impartial and transparent, Kang Chol continued to make baseless allegations against Malaysia.
“As the ambassador to Malaysia, the DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) ambassador must realise that he must enjoy the confidence of the Government of Malaysia,” Anifah told reporters at a media briefing on Saudi Arabia ruler King Salman Abdulaziz Al-Saud’s state visit from tomorrow.
Wisma Putra has so far summoned Kang Chol and recalled Malaysia’s Ambassador to Pyongyang Mohamad Nizan Mohamad.
According to diplomatic protocol, Malaysia, among others, has the option to expel the North Korean ambassador if the Government deems it necessary.
“The ambassador has been informed of the process of the law but he continues to be delusional and still makes accusations against our Government,” Anifah said.
He added that the police investigation into the assassination was ongoing and all parties should allow them to focus on finding the cause of death and those responsible.
“At this juncture, we do not see the need to dignify his (Kang Chol’s) statements and allegations against the Government of Malaysia.”
Anifah said as a responsible country, Malaysia stood by its international obligations based on international law and established diplomatic practices.
However, these friendly relations must be reciprocated, he said.
“The ambassador must understand and realise the intent and feelings of not only the Government but also the people of Malaysia,” he said.