He said the claims circulating on social media did not portray the full context of the incident and had created a negative perception of him, Kosmo reported.

Azhar said the incident took place after a lecture session, when he was introduced to the student, who is also the Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Kelantan student representative council president.

“At that time, I was informed that he was the nephew of my friend. In a friendly atmosphere, I shook hands and touched his cheek as a sign of affection, given my relationship with his family.

“There was no slap, physical assault, or any form of rough treatment as alleged,” he was quoted as saying.

A video circulating on social media since yesterday appeared to show the student, identified as Nik Alif Aiman, claiming that he was slapped by Azhar.

Azhar said the interaction took place openly, in the presence of UiTM student affairs officers, programme organisers, and other participants.

He urged the public not to spread unverified claims, adding that he reserved the right to pursue legal action against those responsible for publishing or disseminating false allegations harmful to his reputation.

Meanwhile, PAS Youth chief Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden said in a statement that Nik Alif had lodged a police report over the incident.

Afnan said Nik Alif claimed he was slapped on the left cheek following a brief political discussion, and called for Azhar to issue an apology.

“Umno must immediately investigate and take firm action against the Umno leader concerned,” he added.