'From the bottom of my heart, once again I apologise ...' - Dr Zulkifli

KUALA LUMPUR: Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Seri Dr Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri who was confirmed positive for COVID-19 on Monday, has once again apologised for the incident.

The statement came after several parties were seen continuing to question the actions of the Religious Minister who did not undergo quarantine for 14 days after returning from Sabah, apart from attending various programs in several states.

In his update on Twitter page, Dr Zulkifli also described the time period given as an opportunity for him to reflect and examine the space for self-improvement.

“This period granted by Allah SWT gives me the opportunity to reflect and examine the areas for improvement for the future.

"From the bottom of my heart, once again I apologise for what happened," he said in the entry, today.

Despite having to undergo treatment and quarantine, Dr Zulkifli informed that the trust and responsibilities borne by him will continue to be implemented, including reporting on the development of Islamic affairs governance at the Federal level.

In the same status, Zulkifli also uploaded the August Report Card of the agency under his portfolio.

“Every sen spent on any form of business related to Islamic governance at the Federal level is a trust from the people.

"My schedule for August was mostly focused on Parliament. Even so, Alhamdulillah, the agencies under me were very understanding and still moved their respective programs with full commitment," he said.

He hoped that the Monthly Report Card would give a general overview of what has been implemented every month under his portfolio.

Yesterday, Dr Zulkifli became the latest national leader who was confirmed positive for COVID-19.

Through an update on his Facebook page, he also urged all parties who had contact with him to undergo COVID-19 screening test.

On September 24, Dr Zulkifli was reported to be in Sabah to attend several programs and returned to Kuala Lumpur.

Upon his return, Dr Zulkifli reportedly also visited several mosques in various states, mostly to deliver sermons or talks.