HAVING been in politics for as long as I have and being a second term elected state assemblyman, I am well aware of my responsibilities and one of it being adherence to law.
“Justice must not only be done, but must also be seen to be done” has always been a stand that I take seriously.
As reported in the media, I am the state assemblyman who was recently arrested by the Penang police in Perai.
I can understand the disappointment that those around me may feel, stemming from this latest incident which I was reported to have been arrested for testing positive for drugs.
In my caution statement to the police, I had stated the following:
- I was invited to meet several friends (who are also my clients) for a Chinese New Year dinner meet-up in Penang.
- Upon reaching Perai, I was taken to the location of my arrest.
- I was hesitant to enter the premises at first but eventually did.
- I did not take any illegal substance.
- I was shocked when I was told my urine tested positive for drugs, as I don’t even smoke.
- I was poured an unusual drink which I did not consume after tasting it.
- I subsequently found out the following day that while I was in the toilet, someone had come to my table and topped up my drinking glass.
As a result of this incident, immediately upon being released on Jan 14, I lodged a police report stating I was exposed to suspicious elements and named an eye witness to this act. The eye witness has given a police statement confirming this incident.
Ready to defend myself
I have asked the police to investigate my report. The public can assess my above statement given to the police and come to their own conclusion.
I intend to defend myself nevertheless to prove my innocence. Needless to say, many have jumped to the conclusion that I must be guilty.
Nothing has changed, and I shall carry out my duties to my electorate and will stand by my position that drugs have and will always be a social issue, while continuing the fight against this.
I thank the party leadership for their support and trust in me. With regards Perak DAP stand for me to submit a report, I am complying with the directive.
As a responsible assemblyman elected under my party banner, I also stand ready to protect it from harm and will readily submit myself to be suspended so as not to drag my party into this case.
To my supporters who know me in and out, especially the people of Pasir Bedamar, I apologise wholeheartedly for putting myself in the position of being compromised. – Jan 15, 2022
Terence Naidu is the state assemblyman for Pasir Bedamar.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
