In a statement by the ministry’s corporate communications unit, the ministry said it appreciated the vital role the media played in reporting accurate and verified information to the public.

“We also respect the freedom to ask questions during press conferences.”

Nga drew brickbats for reprimanding an Utusan Malaysia reporter at the pre-launch of the “I Lite U” project in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. Nga was purportedly asked why the name of the programme was in English instead of Malay.

He responded by asking for the name of the reporter’s media company and said he would “call your chief editors because this concerns national interests”.

Nga also said the project was aimed at attracting tourists ahead of the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, and the English name would give foreign visitors a “sense of belonging”.

His response led to academic Tajuddin Rasdi calling for Nga to apologise over his reprimand of the reporter.

Earlier today, government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil questioned the manner in which Nga responded to the reporter, adding that the administration is of the view that reporters have the right to ask questions as part of their responsibility to the public.

Every response must be delivered “with courtesy”, Fahmi said.

The ministry’s statement this evening reiterated that the “I Lite U” project was aimed at attracting international visitors’ attention to Malaysia’s unique attractions, particularly in the capital.