Netizens remind public office-holders to be mindful of language after David Neo calls Hong Kong fans “idiots”

SINGAPORE: Netizens have expressed mixed reactions after Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth David Neo apologised for calling Hong Kong football fans and players “idiots” during a post-match locker room celebration.

The apology came after a video surfaced showing Neo making the remarks following Singapore’s historic 2–1 win over Hong Kong on 18 November 2025 — a victory that secured qualification for the 2027 Asian Cup.

In the clip, initially livestreamed by a player and later reposted by football page TMSGoal, Neo is heard saying: “It was fantastic… you kena [Malay for hit] pressured by them, all the fans were bloody idiots, end up players also played like idiots… But you all played like lions.”

The footage triggered strong public reactions, with many questioning whether it was appropriate for a minister to use such language about an opposing team and its supporters.

One comment from user @sterlingcity read: “Totally out of order, as a Minister he should have been more respectful.”

Neo later responded directly to the criticism on Instagram, writing: “Indeed I probably should have been more respectful. I take back what I said. The Hong Kong team were really tough and their fans were fully behind them. That’s something we should respect, and let’s also get behind our Lions.”

His reply drew a wave of follow-up comments. While some users appreciated the acknowledgement, others questioned the tone, sincerity and implications of his apology.

The remarks were made in the context of heightened emotions. Singapore had come from behind to defeat Hong Kong, with goals from Shawal Anuar and Ilhan Fandi overturning Matt Orr’s early opener.

The win ensured Singapore topped Group C with 11 points, an unassailable lead due to head-to-head results. As Singapore now looks ahead to the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, the focus returns to squad development and international preparations.

Mixed Reactions Across Social Media

Across CNA, Mothership, The Straits Times, and The Online Citizen, more than 3,400 comments were posted, reflecting a wide range of views.

While some defended Neo — attributing his remarks to the euphoria of the moment — many others were critical and argued that, as an acting minister, he should have exercised greater restraint.

Some netizens sympathised with Neo’s emotional response, noting that Hong Kong fans had also booed the Singapore side.

“Don’t really see any problem with that honestly… yes he could have been more respectful or use his word wisely. But under the circumstances and being sworn at throughout the game by the opposition fans, this was purely a ‘moment’ within the S’pore dressing room,” one user commented.

Another user said the remark was neither disrespectful nor arrogant, but simply typical changing-room pep talk.

One user added that Neo was overwhelmed by the win and that it can be difficult to control one’s words when emotionally invested in the game, especially in a dressing room.

The user felt the remarks did not mean harm but noted that such words should not be said in public or outside the dressing room.

“As an MP, He Should Be Mindful of His Words,” Netizens Say

However, many others questioned Neo’s conduct and said his position as a public office-holder required greater restraint.

“That’s bad for a member of parliament to be using that kind of language against our opponents,” one user wrote, adding that Neo should self-reflect and “act accordingly”.

Another user commented that, as a Member of Parliament, Neo should be mindful of what he says and that respect ought to be shown to both the players and their supporters.

One user said the remarks were unnecessary and unbecoming of a minister, adding that derogatory language — even in the heat of the moment — can be hurtful and damage relationships between nations.

Another netizen noted that “idiot” is a very harsh word to use on someone. “This person said things without considering how someone feels. Not everyone can be as good as another,” the user wrote, adding, “Be humble is the key.”

Criticism of His Apology

Some users also took issue with Neo’s use of the word “probably” in his apology.

“Not ‘probably’ but just ‘should have been’. Otherwise sounds like ‘sorry, but not sorry’,” one user wrote.

Another user said that if Neo wanted to apologise, he should do so sincerely. The user added that, as a public figure, his words carry implications whether he likes it or not, and that he should strive to be better.

A different user questioned Neo’s sincerity, suggesting he only apologised because of the criticisms circulating on social media.

The user added that if the incident had not gone viral, Neo might not have seen any issue in calling another team and their fans “idiots”.

Calls for Humility and Sportsmanship

Several users framed the issue more broadly, calling for sportsmanship and humility.

“Being respectful isn’t just about ‘not calling them names’, but actually seeing them as respectable people in your heart even though Singapore defeated them… We have no place to flaunt this win but only to celebrate in grace,” one user wrote.

Another user said it is important to remain humble, respectful and appreciative of others. The user added that it is unhealthy to be proud, to look down on others or to use degrading language, noting that what we say about others ultimately reflects who we are rather than who they are.

The user concluded that this experience should serve as a reminder for everyone to stay humble, respectful, kind and empathetic in any situation.