Bob Manolan Mohd admitted his comment was “overboard” and recognised that it could be interpreted as a threat.

“I, in my personal capacity, apologise to all the Tok Batins and those who feel offended by my statement,” said Manolan, who is also from the Orang Asli community.

Manolan was quoted as saying that Tok Batins are paid by the federal government and, therefore, they must support Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the upcoming Cameron Highlands by-election.

“If they don’t support, ‘kita buang’ (we discard them),” he reportedly said.

The statement was criticised by electoral watchdog Bersih 2.0 as well as politicians from both sides of the divide.

Manolan today explain that what he meant was for collaboration between village chiefs and the government.

“I still hold to the principle that all village chiefs should support the ruling government’s policies so that the execution of such policies can be achieved and benefit Malaysians,” he said.

“How can the government’s policy to take care of the Orang Asli, be carried out by the government if the village chiefs themselves consist of Umno division chiefs… and will always work for Umno?” he asked.