The government today agreed to pay RM600,000 in damages to the family of the late Teoh Beng Hock as settlement in a negligence suit filed by the family against the government and 13 others over his death.
The consent judgment was recorded by High Court judge Datuk Rosnaini Saub recorded the counsel for the Teoh family, Gobind Singh Deo, informed the court that both parties had agreed to settle the civil suit.
Beng Hock's father, Teoh Leong Hwee, and mother, Teng Shuw Hoi, as well as fiance, Soh Cher Wei and their son, Teoh Er Jia, were named the plaintiffs in the suit which was filed on Oct 3, 2012.
They named the government, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and 12 others as defendants.
In the statement of claim, the plaintiffs stated that MACC had wrongfully attacked Beng Hock, causing him to be in fear and under extreme duress.
As such, the family was seeking damages for loss of consortium, sorrow and negligence.
Gobind said although the settlement was a great victory for the Teoh family, they still wants those responsible for Selangor political aide's death to be charged in court.
"The family said in court today that they accept the payment to the extent of the claim for negligence, and that they stand by the decision of the Court of Appeal. But they also demand that police conduct further investigations into the matter and charge those responsible for his death.
"We will continue to push the police for further action. Legally, we've done all that we possibly can. It is now for the police to do the needful and we will not stop pushing for justice for Beng Hock," Gobind said in a statement.
Gobind, who took over the case from his late father, Karpal Singh, said he would not take any payment from Beng Hock's family, as his father’s wish.
“I will not accept payment of any fees from the Teoh family in this regard.
“This was the clear instructions given to me by the late Mr Karpal Singh, in respect of his services in this case before his untimely death last year."
Teoh, who was a political aide to DAP Selangor exco Ean Yong Hian Wah, fell to his death at the Selangor MACC office at Plaza Masalam in Shah Alam on July 16, 2009, after hours of being interrogated by MACC officers on an alleged corruption case.
T K Letchumy Tamboo
Tue May 12 2015
On the night before his death, Teoh (pic) had been interrogated for nine house. He was only released by the MACC officers at 3.45am on July 16, 2009. He was reportedly last seen alive around 6am.
Trump's Gaza plan for 'Riviera of the Middle East' triggers international condemnation
Countries from Russia, China, Spain, Ireland and the UK say they continue to support the two-state solution.
US Postal Service suspends inbound parcels from China, Hong Kong
Trump's crackdown on de minimis would make the products sold by the likes of Shein and Temu more expensive.
US plan to take over Gaza: Malaysia's stance on Palestine unchanged - PM
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says Malaysia's stance remains the same as that of other Islamic countries.
US freezes funding for security mission tackling Haiti's gangs
More than $13 million in US funding for an international security force helping fight armed gangs in Haiti has been frozen, the UN says.
Over 40,000 civil servants at high risk of mental health issues - Zaliha
A total of 44,901 civil servants were screened under Public Service Psychological Health Digital Profiling System, says Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
India's Modi takes 'holy dips' at Maha Kumbh, week after stampede killed dozens
Security personnel stood in the water nearby while thousands of people crowded the banks to watch the prime minister perform the rituals.
Philippine Congress endorses impeachment complaint against vice president
Vice President Sara Duterte would be the Philippines' second most senior official to face removal from office.
What is a sovereign wealth fund?
Sovereign wealth funds are investment vehicles owned by countries.
[COLUMNIST] Rising above Trump tariffs: How a resilient global economy outlasts US protectionism
The current alarm over Trumps tariff threats overlooks a key point: global markets are resilient and adaptable.
Khazanah reports RM5.1 billion operating profit for 2024
Khazanah records RM103.6 billion NAV in 2024, driven by strong domestic investments and strategic growth.
Washington, DC officials identify 66 of 67 victims of midair collision
Work continues by the US Army Corps of Engineers to remove the airplane wreckage from the Potomac River.
Government to further strengthen ASEAN's readiness in finalising DEFA
Malaysia is focusing on two main approaches to facilitate the DEFA negotiation, says Liew Chin Tong.
Trade war will not hinder Malaysia’s GDP growth for 2025 - Rafizi
The finance ministry has projected Malaysia's GDP to grow between 4.5 and 5.5 per cent in 2025.
Trump administration considers adding Shein, Temu to 'forced labor' list, Semafor reports
The move comes after China imposes targeted tariffs on US imports and warnings of possible sanctions against firms like Google.
Thailand to cut power to Myanmar border areas linked to scam centres
Evidence shows transnational crime syndicates in Myanmar's Tachileik, Myawaddy, Payathonzu, that are possible power cut targets.
Trump reimposes 'maximum pressure' on Iran, aims to drive oil exports to zero
Trump signs the presidential memorandum reimposing Washington's tough policy on Iran that was practiced throughout his first term.
FACTBOX: Trump proposes US takeover of Gaza
Here are some remarks that US President Donald Trump made and questions that he answered during a press conference.
Singapore passes law against foreign interference in race-based organisations
Under the Racial Harmony Bill, race-based groups must disclose foreign and anonymous donations, affiliations, and leadership.
Malaysia, Uzbekistan agree to elevate ties to strategic partnership
Malaysia and Uzbekistan noted active cooperation on key issues within international bodies, especially the UN and OIC.
Musk's dad says he arranged son's call with South African leader
Trump's post claiming South Africa is "confiscating land" and mistreating "certain classes" triggers sudden flurry of backdoor diplomacy.