He clarified on his Facebook page that his response to a journalist’s question regarding the issue had been sensationalised, resulting in an inaccurate report that was published.

“My statement was to urge Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) to take the eight local councillor seats decided by the State Government for the time being and that their request for more seats could be discussed in the next term as there was insufficient time to discuss it now.”

He said deliberating on the issue now would only delay the appointment of councillors and this would, in turn, affect the administrative efficiency of local councils.

Teng further said that when he answered the question, he did so in a calm and diplomatic manner but the report gave the impression that he was angry and aggressive.

His post was aimed at clearing the air over Sinar Harian’s report titled “Amanah patut bersyukur dapat lapan kerusi” (“Amanah should be grateful to get eight seats”).

On Wednesday, it was reported that Amanah was given eight local councillor positions for a two-year term beginning January 15, 2016.

The party had previously requested a minimum of two seats in each of Selangor’s 12 local councils.