A concerned Malaysian writes about Malaysian affairs. "You are the Change you Seek" Barack Obama

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

APOLOGIES .... How Should a Leader Apologise?

There have been reports that some people are not too happy with the "ifs" and "buts" in the Education Minister's apology.

So this is a little essay on what should included in a good apology:

1. There should be an admisssion that one has done a wrong or made a mistake.
2. Should not contain any "ifs", "buts" and "therefores".
3. Should be some action to make reparation to the wronged party/parties.

Some I suggest that all political figures who sincerely believed they have done something wrong and need to apologise, this kind of apology will go down well with the majority of common folks.

"I am really sorry that my action offended many Malaysian. I did not realise that this act would have been interpreted in such a manner and I apologise to all those who were intimidated or offended in any way.

It was never my intention to cause such hurt.
Therefore I am resigning from public office with immediate effect but I will remain as a MP to serve my constituents.
When the people decide that I should seek such office again in the future, I will be more ready and matured to serve you."

What do you think?

3 comments:

yellowkingdom said...

I like your suggestion very much.It encapsulates the sincerity of the individual, expressed in a clear and noble statement. An apology must not be only seen to be an admission of guilt or wrongdoing of the individual. His intention may be noble or justifiable. Nevertheless, it is for the people to judge if they have been offended. As such this affront to their feelings had been conveyed to him in no uncertain terms. He must then make a sincere unconditional apology and make proper reparation to the affected parties.

novice101 said...

The only essential elemnt for a true apology is sincerity!!!!

Arena Green said...

If one is sincere, it will show in his speech and mannerism. Unfortunately, the culture in UMNO is "cakap tak serupa bikin".