Anwar, Pendang MP settle defamation suit

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has settled a defamation suit filed three years ago against Pendang MP Awang Hashim.

Anwar’s lawyer, SN Nair, informed the High Court today that the parties had agreed to resolve the dispute amicably, with Anwar withdrawing the suit without liberty to file afresh and no order as to costs.

After confirmation of this by Awang’s lawyer, Yusfarizal Yusoff, judicial commissioner Roslan Mat Nor struck out the suit on the agreed terms.

The judge also vacated the trial dates scheduled for next month.

In a joint statement tendered in court, the parties said they decided to resolve the matter after agreeing that there were more important issues which should be prioritised in the interests of the people and country.

They said they had also considered the implications of the defamation proceedings, including the litigation costs to be borne by both parties.

“Awang Hashim, with humility and without reservation, withdraws all statements made by him on or around Feb 21, 2023, which formed the basis of this legal action, and agrees not to repeat or republish any such statements, or statements carrying the same or substantially similar meaning, in the future,” the statement read.

The parties also expressed hope that the settlement would be accepted and respected by all parties, and that the matter would no longer be politicised or used as material that could affect the harmony, unity and stability of the country.

Anwar filed the suit in March 2023 over remarks allegedly made by Awang at a press conference outside the Dewan Rakyat on Feb 21 that year concerning Anwar’s appointment as prime minister and allegations of selective prosecution.