Muhyiddin To Pay RM1.35 Million To Lim

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Post on Nov 08, 2024

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Muhyiddin To Pay RM1.35 Million to Lim: A Breakdown of the Court Ruling

The High Court has ruled that former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin must pay RM1.35 million in damages to former DAP leader Lim Kit Siang. This decision came after a defamation lawsuit filed by Lim in 2021, stemming from a statement Muhyiddin made during the 2020 Sabah state election campaign.

What was the statement?

In a speech at a political rally in Sabah, Muhyiddin accused Lim of being a “puppet master” who was trying to manipulate the state's politics. He claimed Lim was behind a plot to destabilize the state government and accused him of wanting to see Sabah fall into the hands of DAP.

The Court's Decision

The High Court found that Muhyiddin's statement was defamatory and that it caused damage to Lim's reputation. The court ordered Muhyiddin to pay RM1.35 million in damages, which includes general damages, aggravated damages, and costs.

Why is this important?

This ruling is significant for a few reasons:

• It reinforces the importance of responsible political discourse. The court's decision sends a clear message that politicians must be held accountable for their words, especially when they make defamatory statements.
• It highlights the need for accurate information in politics. The case emphasizes the need for politicians to ensure the accuracy of their claims, especially when they are making accusations against others.
• It has implications for political campaigns. This ruling sets a precedent for future defamation cases related to political campaigns, prompting politicians to be more careful with their language.

What's next?

Muhyiddin has the right to appeal the High Court's decision. It's unclear if he will exercise this right, but it's possible that the case could continue to be debated in court.

Beyond the legal battle, this case raises important questions about the role of politicians in a democracy. It also highlights the need for a healthy and responsible political environment where truth and accountability are valued.