Court Orders Substantial Damages
KUALA LUMPUR: Former PM Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has been ordered to pay RM1.35 million to Lim Guan Eng after the court found him guilty of defamation over statements about the tax exemption of Al-Bukhary Foundation.
Failure to Verify Statements
Judicial Commissioner Roz Mawar Rozain stated that Lim presented a compelling case. She noted that Muhyiddin had sufficient resources to verify his statements yet chose to continue the narrative, despite Lim clarifying the inaccuracies.
Defense Arguments Rejected
The court criticized Muhyiddin’s defense as lacking in substance, with Roz Mawar citing racial implications within his statements. The judge further pointed out that these comments lacked qualified privilege due to the improper timing, suggesting an ulterior motive.
Breakdown of Financial Penalties
The court directed Muhyiddin to pay a total of RM1.35 million in damages and an additional RM50,000 in legal costs. Muhyiddin announced plans to appeal the judgment.