FORMER UMNO leader Khairy Jamaluddin has filed a suit against Sungai Besar UMNO party chief Datuk Seri Jamal Md Yunos for RM1 mil over alleged defamation.
According to news reports, the former health minister, better known as KJ, is suing Jamal over alleged defamatory remarks that were made on the sidelines of the then-UMNO general assembly at the World Trade Centre (WTC) on Jan 14.
During the press conference on that date, Jamal had reportedly said he would lodge a complaint with the UMNO disciplinary board against then-party member Khairy over the latter’s allegation of an attempt to bring in “phantom voters” into the party general assembly.
Khairy’s counsel, law firm Aizat Izuan Shakeel filed the suit at the Kuala Lumpur High Court on May 24.
Apart from being reported in the media, footage of the press conference containing the alleged defamatory remarks was also seen and heard by the public.
In the statement of claim, Khairy said Jamal’s statement during the press conference had allegedly portrayed him to be a leader without integrity, lacking in leadership credibility and was involved in corruption to split UMNO members for personal gain, among other contentions.
Khairy further claimed the statement, which was purportedly made with malice and with no basis, ruined not only his credibility and character but also jeopardised his opportunity in business and made the people lose faith in him to head any organisation.
In addition to seeking RM1 mil in damages, Khairy is further seeking an apology from Jamal which is to be published on the latter’s social media accounts (Facebook and TikTok); and reproduced in three languages (Bahasa Malaysia, English and Mandarin) in newspapers to be determined by the plaintiff.
Khairy is also seeking a complete removal of the said publication by Jamal upon the date of judgment. – May 29, 2023
