Mohd Hisyamuddin Ghazali was appointed director-general of the Community Communications Department (J-Kom) on June 8, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. He drew criticism after posting a Facebook message on June 13 that used the term "Cina sesat" (misguided Chinese), referring to businessman Albert Tei and former BN Strategic Communications deputy director Eric See-To [4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 1, 2, 3]. The post was later amended following public backlash.
Albert Tei responded to the controversy by accepting a public debate challenge from Mohd Hisyamuddin. Tei called on him to set the date, venue, and moderator, saying, "I am ready. I want to know the venue, who will host it, what time and what date" [9]. Mohd Hisyamuddin also lodged a police report against Tei, alleging a disturbance at a government premises and baseless claims against the Communications Ministry [9, 6, 7, 8].
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil advised Mohd Hisyamuddin to ensure government communications avoid manipulation and clearly convey the government's policies and vision. Fahmi said, "We must ensure that whatever is communicated helps the people understand the government's vision and direction" [1].
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching urged all government officials, including Mohd Hisyamuddin, to refrain from inappropriate language and to avoid issues related to race, religion, and royalty (3R) at all times. Teo emphasized, "My advice is that I hope everyone on our side refrains from using inappropriate language and avoids all 3R issues — not only during the campaign period but at all times" [6]. As of mid-June, Teo stated she had not met Mohd Hisyamuddin and was unsure if Communications Minister Fahmi had done so [6, 7, 8, 2, 3].
The phrase "Cina sesat" sparked debate on whether it was racially charged. Several sources described the remark as inappropriate and racially sensitive [4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 1]. Meanwhile, Mohd Hisyamuddin denied making racist remarks against the Chinese community and said the phrase was targeted only at two individuals and was misinterpreted [2].
MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong criticized Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching and DAP for not responding publicly to the remarks. Wee demanded a public apology and clarification on disciplinary actions, asking, "Is this the official stance of the Communications Ministry? Is this the new standard of communication under the Madani government?... If such language were used by the opposition, DAP would certainly be the loudest in speaking about the 3Rs... But when it comes from a newly appointed government officer, why is DAP silent?" [5]
The debate over Mohd Hisyamuddin’s remarks and the ensuing calls for accountability remain active. Albert Tei awaits the finalisation of arrangements for their proposed debate.
