KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has filed a suit against former attorney-general Tan Sri Tommy Thomas and a publishing company over defamatory statements made with regard to the murder of Mongolian woman Altantuya Shaariibuu in a book entitled 'My Story: Justice in the Wilderness'.
In his statement of claim, Najib, 68, claimed that on Jan 31, Thomas had authored and caused the publication of the book which linked him to Altantuya's murder.
He claimed that the book was published by the second defendant (Gerakbudaya) and distributed in the country at the end of January this year, and subsequently worldwide.
The Pekan MP claimed that several extracts from the book including the defamatory statements had been republished on websites around the world, besides claiming that the two defendants did not make any factual verification with the plaintiff.
Najib claimed that the defamatory statements implied that he had ordered two former members of the Special Action Unit (UTK), namely chief inspector Azilah Hadri and corporal Sirul Azhar Umar to kill Altantuya, and that he had confused the public over the murder to cover his tracks.
He also claimed that the defamatory statement implied he had influenced Sirul Azhar's lawyers and others to meet with the policeman in Villawood, Sydney, to ensure the latter would not make any statement involving him in Altantuya's murder.
It was further claimed that the actions of both defendants in writing and publishing the defamatory statements were malicious and disparaging of the plaintiff in his capacity as former prime minister and finance minister.
"The allegations stated in the book have no merit, and are scandalous.
"Therefore, Thomas has abused his position as attorney-general to obtain 'evidence' against me in relation to Altantuya's murder," read the statement of claim.
Najib said he had sent a letter to the two defendants demanding, among others, an apology, costs and compensation, however, they replied by denying the allegations and refused to issue an apology or pay the damages claimed.
Najib claimed that his reputation was affected by the publication of the defamatory statements, and sought general, aggravated and exemplary damages against both defendants, and an order for the defendants to remove the defamatory statements from the book.
He is also seeking an injunction to prevent the defendants or their agents from publishing similar statements, in addition to demanding an apology to be published in at least three major newspapers of the plaintiff's choice, for three consecutive days.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
Wed Oct 27 2021
Najib has filed a suit against former attorney-general Tommy Thomas and a publishing company over defamatory statements made with regard to the murder of Mongolian woman Altantuya Shaariibuu in a book entitled 'My Story: Justice in the Wilderness'.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.
Minimum wage to increase to RM1,700 effective Feb 1, 2025
The Progressive Wage Policy would be fully enforced next year with an allocation of RM200 million, benefiting 50,000 workers.
Bursa Malaysia ends higher on Budget 2025 optimism
The benchmark index, which opened 1.85 points higher at 1,643.29, moved between 1,641.71 and 1,649.31 throughout the trading session.
Five important aspects relating to people’s lives in Budget 2025 - PM
The focus is on driving the MADANI Economy, speeding reforms, cutting red tape, raising wages, and tackling the cost of living.
Economic outlook: Govt plans to leverage, expand existing city transit system
The expansion aims to provide a more efficient and reliable public transportation network, reduce congestion, and improve accessibility.
Economic outlook: Budget 2025 to lay foundation for a digital-driven economy
The report said Budget 2025 will entail efforts to position Kuala Lumpur as a top 20 global startup hub by 2030 through the KL20 initiative.
Economic outlook: Corruption and lack of accountability hinder economic progress
Special Cabinet Committee on National governance is established to curb corruption, law reforms to modernise outdate regulations, MoF said.
National Wages Consultative Council will be strengthened
The govt will also incentivise hiring women returning from career breaks, offer job matching and improve care services facilities.
Economic outlook: Ensuring 11 years of compulsory education for all children
Budget 2025 will continue prioritising upskilling and retraining initiatives to equip workers with the latest skill sets necessary.
Consolidated public sector projected to record lower surplus of RM41.7 bil 2024
The MoF said the consolidated general government revenue is estimated to increase slightly to RM384.7 billion in 2024.
PM announces substantial Budget 2025 hastening Malaysia to become Asian economic powerhouse
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it would create jobs and also tackle financial leakages to enhance public spending efficiency.