Hishamuddin said he viewed the post uploaded on Facebook by Sungai Udang assemblyman Dr Aleef Yusof with the utmost seriousness, describing it as inappropriate and disparaging.

“I take full responsibility in extending a sincere apology to the people of Melaka, the state leadership, and all parties affected.

“In particular, I apologise to Razak, the Melaka tourism, heritage, arts and culture exco, for any offence, discomfort, or implications arising from this incident,” he said in a statement.

Hishamuddin also said he strongly condemned any form of communication that was insulting, demeaning, or humiliating towards a person.

Earlier today, Masjid Tanah MP Mas Ermieyati Samsudin rebuked Aleef for posting the image of Razak with a dog sticker over his face, calling such actions unbecoming of an elected representative.

She also said the Bersatu assemblyman’s actions did not reflect the proper conduct of a Muslim and a Malay.

Aleef uploaded the post following a commotion during yesterday’s state assembly sitting, claiming that Razak failed to answer a supplementary question about the reopening of a floating market project that had reportedly been shut down for a year.

Razak has maintained that he answered the question posed by Aleef.

Hishamuddin said all social media content featuring the image with the dog sticker should be immediately removed to prevent further misunderstanding and to ease public tensions.

He also said a culture of mature, courteous, and professional politics must be upheld and any action that could tarnish the party’s image must be strictly avoided.

“All leaders and party members must exercise greater caution in their use of social media. Every post reflects not only personal character but also the institutions we represent. Discipline in communication is therefore a shared responsibility,” he said.