Malaysia gives icy reply to Lee Kuan Yew apology

PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia, Oct 3 (Reuters) Malaysia's prime minister gave an icy response today to an apology by former Singapore leader Lee Kuan Yew, who had upset the country by criticising its race relations.

Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said he had received Lee's written apology but declined to say whether he accepted it and instead repeated his objections to Lee's original comments.

Lee told a public forum two weeks ago that Malaysia and Indonesia, Singapore's predominantly Muslim neighbours, had ''systematically marginalised'' their Chinese minorities.

Malaysia, which has a large Chinese minority, was particularly incensed and voiced fears that the comments could inflame feelings among the Chinese community.

''I have received the letter and I understand the contents,'' Abdullah told reporters at his office in the administrative capital of Putrajaya. ''I have taken note of it.

''The statement by Lee Kuan Yew in Singapore is uncalled for and not appreciated ... I certainly reject the premise upon which he made the statement in Singapore. I believe such a statement cannot contribute to good neighbourly relations.'' ''Such a statement can incite the feelings of Malaysians and I think it is important we have to ensure such a statement should not be made again,'' he added.

In his letter, which was released to media yesterday night, Lee apologised for the ''discomfort'' caused by his remarks but did not withdraw them.

REUTERS AKJ KP1304