Money Mind

Was This a Non-Apology?
Yes, the statement by Ng Chee Meng contains several traits commonly associated with a non-apology, especially in the MOE dialogue section. Below is a breakdown using correct phpBB formatting.

1. Dinner Photo with Su Haijin
Summary: This section explains a past photo taken during an official engagement and distances himself after criminal charges against Su Haijin.
Analysis:

There is no apology made, nor is one necessarily required if his claims are accurate.

The tone is defensive but not evasive.

This part reads more as a clarification or disclaimer than an apology.

2. MOE Dialogue – Problematic Non-Apology Elements
Key excerpts:

Quote"I do not remember the exact words I used that day as close to a decade has passed..."

Quote"I regret if any of my remarks came across as disrespectful..."

Quote"I could have handled the situation better. I sincerely apologise."

Issues:

• Memory Deflection: "I do not remember..." is a distancing tactic and avoids responsibility.
• Conditional Language: "I regret if..." implies the offense is the audience's interpretation, not his actions.
• Passive Voice: "The situation could have been handled better" doesn't identify who mishandled it.
• Buried Apology: "I sincerely apologise" comes only after a string of qualifiers, which dilutes its sincerity.

3. Serving Jalan Kayu and NTUC
Summary: This section explains he will not take a government position and will focus on local duties and union work.
Analysis:

Not related to the apology issue.

Serves as a reputation management and redirection move.

Checklist of Non-Apology Markers Present:

• Conditional phrasing: "if any of my remarks came across..." – implies the listener is overly sensitive.
• Passive voice: "The situation could have been handled better" – lacks direct responsibility.
• Time distancing: "as close to a decade has passed" – suggests criticism is outdated.
• Reputation redirection: Ends with focus on service and public commitment.

Conclusion:
This is a textbook example of a partial or non-apology, particularly due to the MOE dialogue portion. While it includes the words "I sincerely apologise," the structure and framing significantly weaken the perceived sincerity.

Would you like me to rewrite it as a proper, unambiguous apology for comparison?

moi thin he is a liablity rather than an asset now .. and jln kayu smc will be nose moar in 5 yr taim.  :flash: