Khir Toyo says sorry to Ronnie Liu

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 23 ― Former Selangor Mentri Besar Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo apologised in court today to Selangor executive councillor Ronnie Liu to settle a defamation suit against him for implying in a newspaper report that the DAP politican was involved in vice activities.

“I implied that YB Ronnie Liu Tian Khiew had obstructed the officers of the MPSJ and the police in closing down a hotel in Puchong, which I insinuated was a centre for prostitution activities.

Dr Khir apologised and shook hands with Selangor executive councillor Ronnie Liu in court to seal the settlement. ― File pic

“I also apologise to YB Ronnie Liu for further insinuating that he was involved in such activities which insinuation is totally untrue,” Dr Khir was reported by The Star Online to have said in court today.

Liu, who is also Pandamaran assemblyman, had sued the Umno man four years ago over an article published in vernacular newspaper China Press on May 9, 2008 in which Dr Khir was quoted.

He said Dr Khir’s remarks meant he was immoral and unqualified to be a politician, the news portal reported today.

The lawmaker in the ruling Pakatan Rakyat (PR) state government who was also in court was reported to have smiled as he accepted Dr Khir’s apology.

Both shook hands in court to seal the settlement of the suit, which was recorded before High Court judge, Nik Hasmat Nik Mohamad.

“There is a Chinese saying, if you can forgive people, we just forgive. What he said is untrue and caused injury and damage to my reputation as a politician,” Liu was quoted telling reporters later.

“It is okay to criticise your opponents but it has to be with basis and true. It cannot hurt others. It must be truthful and reasonable,” The Star Online reported him saying.