Anwar files RM59m defamation suit against Utusan

He claims he was defamed by two articles with regards to his comments on homosexuality.

(BERNAMA) – Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has filed a RM50-million suit against Utusan Melayu (Malaysia) Bhd, claiming he was defamed by two articles the Malay language newspaper published with regard to his comments on homosexuality laws in his recent interview with the BBC.

Anwar filed the suit, against Utusan and its editor-in-chief Datuk Abdul Aziz Ishak, at the High Court registry today through the law firm, Messrs Daim & Gamany.

In his statement of claim, Anwar said the newspaper had published two articles, on its front page and page 10, on Jan 17 portraying him to be a Muslim leader whose views are contrary to Islamic teachings.

He claimed that the words published based on his interview with the BBC are unfounded and malicious.

Anwar, who is Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) advisor, is seeking RM50 million in damages, aggravated damages, exemplary damages and other relief deemed appropriate by the court.

He is also seeking an injunction to stop the defendants from continuing to state or publish words defamatory of him.