A Malaysian woman who sparked outrage after posting a video mocking locals during a trip to China has publicly apologised after facing intense criticism from both Malaysian and Chinese netizens.
The controversy began when the woman, identified as Nur Asyiqin Mohd Dalil, uploaded a video while travelling in China. In the clip, she was seen covering her nose while making remarks that local people were “smelly” and claiming that “Chinese people do not bathe”.
The video quickly spread across social media platforms in both Malaysia and China, triggering widespread condemnation and accusations that her behaviour was disrespectful and damaging to Malaysia’s reputation overseas.
Initially Threatened Legal Action Against Critics
When the controversy first erupted, Nur Asyiqin did not immediately apologise.
Instead, she adopted a firm stance and claimed she was the victim of defamation and false accusations by online users.
She also warned that she intended to take legal action against individuals who shared the video or criticised her online.
However, as public backlash intensified and international media outlets began reporting on the incident, pressure continued to mount.
Eventually, she reversed her position and decided to issue a public apology.
Public Apology Issued On TikTok
Nur Asyiqin later uploaded an apology statement on her TikTok account, acknowledging that her actions were inappropriate and expressing regret over her behaviour.
In her statement, she said she wanted to offer her “most humble and sincere apology” for her actions during her holiday in China on Jun. 15.
She added that she accepted full responsibility for any discomfort caused by the video and stressed that she had no intention of insulting, humiliating or creating tensions between people from different countries.
She also said she had reflected deeply on her actions and promised to be more mindful in the future.
“I hope this matter can be resolved properly, and I promise to learn from this experience and become a more mature and responsible person,” she said.
Malaysian Human Rights Lawyer Also Criticised The Behaviour
The incident also drew criticism from prominent Malaysian human rights lawyer Siti Kasim, who described such behaviour as embarrassing and lacking basic respect.
She reminded Malaysians that when travelling overseas, they represent not only themselves but also their country and community.
Siti Kasim emphasised that respect, humility and kindness should be practised regardless of where a person is travelling.
She added that Malaysians are generally known for being friendly and welcoming, rather than arrogant or dismissive towards others.
Original Video Was Removed
According to reports, the viral video showed a group believed to be Malaysian tourists visiting a tourist attraction in China.
Several individuals were seen covering their noses while loudly saying phrases such as “so smelly” and “don’t bathe” in Malay.
The clip spread rapidly on Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu, where many users criticised the behaviour as offensive and disrespectful.
The original video has since been deleted.
The incident has also prompted discussions online about the importance of cultural sensitivity and responsible behaviour when travelling abroad, with many urging tourists to respect local customs and avoid actions that could tarnish their country’s image.