Rayer wins RM100,000 in defamation suit against netizen

 Among others, RSN Rayer says the statements implied he had stolen the Penang Hindu Endowments Board's funds.

The sessions court also awarded Jelutong MP RSN Rayer RM4,000 in costs. (Bernama pic)

GEORGE TOWN:

Jelutong MP RSN Rayer has been awarded RM100,000 in damages after winning a defamation suit against a social media user over videos published online in 2024.

Rayer’s lawyer K Kumarathiraviam said sessions court judge Norsalha Hamzah also ordered S Murugesan, 50, to pay the DAP MP RM4,000 in costs.

Rayer sued Murugesan over several videos released in September 2024 on WhatsApp, TikTok and Facebook.

The two-term MP said the videos were defamatory and had damaged his reputation as a lawyer, elected representative, DAP leader and the Penang Hindu Endowments Board (PHEB) chairman.

Rayer said the statements made by Murugesan in the videos were widely viewed and drew many comments, tarnishing his reputation and good name.

Among others, he said the statements implied he had stolen PHEB funds and was planning to steal or misuse more money.

Rayer had also lodged a police report over the matter on Nov 24, 2024. - FMT