PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Kedah Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor have reached an amicable settlement in a defamation suit at the Alor Setar High Court.
Lawyer Datuk SN Nair, representing the Prime Minister, said the consent settlement was recorded this morning at the Alor Setar High Court.
In a joint statement on Thursday (Oct 23), both leaders said the decision followed consideration of the implications and legal costs for both sides.
They agreed there are larger and more important issues requiring their attention in the national interest.
As part of the settlement, Muhammad Sanusi has publicly withdrawn, in good faith and without condition, the statements he made on November 13, 2022, against Anwar.
“To avoid confusion arising from these proceedings, both parties regard this withdrawal as an effort to clarify the situation and to maintain a cordial and respectful relationship,” the statement read.
In turn, Anwar agreed to withdraw his civil suit against Muhammad Sanusi without any order as to costs and without liberty to refile.
Muhammad Sanusi also committed not to repeat any of the statements that formed the basis of the lawsuit.
Both leaders expressed appreciation to High Court Judge Dr Mohd Johan Lee, whose mediation efforts enabled the resolution.
They also thanked court officers for their professionalism and discretion in handling the matter.
“Both parties hope this settlement will be accepted and respected by all, and not be used to disrupt national peace, unity and harmony,” the statement added.
Anwar, 75, filed the suit on December 13, 2022, over the caretaker Kedah mentri besar’s campaign speech in Negri Sembilan accusing the Pakatan Harapan chairman of immoral behaviour.
Anwar said in his statement of claim that the remarks implied he obtained a royal pardon through fraud, remained unforgiven and deceived the Yang di Pertuan Agong.
He said the statements also implied he is a liar, untrustworthy, unethical and betrayed the people’s mandate, and were made with malicious intent to incite hatred during the 15th General Election campaign on Nov 19, 2022.
Muhammad Sanusi said in his defence that he had no malicious intent and did not slander Anwar, but was merely criticising him.
