Lecturer Ordered to Pay RM400,000 for Defaming Minister in Facebook Posts

A Malaysian court delivered a significant verdict in a defamation case involving prominent figures. Senior lecturer Dr. Kamarul Zaman Yusoff was ordered to pay RM400,000 in damages to Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh. The case stemmed from two Facebook posts made eight years prior, which the court deemed defamatory. The plaintiff's lawyer stated, "The court meticulously examined the arguments presented and found the defendant's defenses of justification, qualified privilege, and fair comment to be without merit." The lawyer further emphasized the absence of remorse from the defendant. This case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of online defamation and the importance of responsible social media usage. The court's decision underscores the significance of accountability for harmful online statements.