The Culture, Sports, and Tourism Bureau announced yesterday (Nov. 21) that Singapore's Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, Mr. David Neo, has formally apologized via email to Hong Kong's Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Ms. Rosanna Law, for his recent remarks. Ms. Law stated that the incident would not affect the long-standing cultural and sports relations between Hong Kong and Singapore.
The controversy arose after the Hong Kong football team's 1-2 loss to Singapore in an Asian Cup qualifier at Kai Tak Sports Park, which eliminated Hong Kong from advancing to the tournament's final stage. A video circulating online showed the Singaporean team celebrating exuberantly in the locker room post-match, during which Mr. David Neo was heard referring to Hong Kong fans and players as "idiots." The comment quickly sparked widespread criticism.
In response, Mr. David Neo has extended his apologies to Ms. Law, emphasizing that his words were inappropriate. Ms. Lo acknowledged the apology and reiterated Hong Kong's commitment to maintaining positive relations with Singapore in cultural and sports exchanges.
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