Akmal secures funds to pay Teresa Kok RM300,000 in defamation case

BUKIT MERTAJAM: Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Akmal Saleh has secured sufficient funds to pay the RM300,000 awarded to DAP veteran Teresa Kok in a defamation suit.

He said a decision on whether to appeal would be announced within a day or two.

The High Court recently ruled in Kok's favour in the defamation suit, awarding her RM250,000 in general and aggravated damages.

Dr Akmal was also ordered to pay RM50,000 in legal costs.

He said the funds came from the sale of his motorcycle and tilapia fish, as well as his personal and family savings.

"My previous savings were insufficient. That was why I decided to sell my assets, namely my motorcycle and tilapia fish.

"I have managed to raise enough through asset sales and savings, while public contributions have continued to come in," he told reporters at the Bukit Mertajam magistrate's court.

He said public donations had reached nearly RM185,000 as of this morning, up from the RM173,000 previously reported.

"I ask the public not to deposit any more money into my account.

"I will not use the money for myself, but will channel it back to those in need," he added.