Video clip released to clear the air on Gan Siow Huang's handshake incident

A cultural group has released footage to clear the air over a handshake incident that led to online criticism of Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Trade and Industry Gan Siow Huang.

- Christine Tan

Kwong Wai Siew Peck San Theng said it had invited Ms Gan for a Cantonese cultural festival held at Peck San Theng in Bishan Lane on May 17.

Representatives of the 155-year-old cultural institution, which is managed by 16 Cantonese clan associations, were waiting to greet her when she arrived alone.

The footage shows her alighting from the car, with a cell-phone in her right hand. She slips the phone into her right trouser pocket as representatives of the group approach her.

Among those who extended their hands was Mr Leong Chee Leng. The 72-year-old is a member of the Kong Chow Wui Koon lion dance troupe, which was scheduled to perform at the Cantonese cultural festival.

Mr Leong can be seen extending his hand to greet her, but Ms Gan is also approached by Mr Edward Leong, chairman of the cultural festival's organising committee.