KUCHING: A former journalist apologised to Batang Sadong MP Nancy Shukri in the Kuching High Court today to settle a defamation suit against him.
Joseph Tawie read out the statement of apology in front of Nancy during an open court proceeding, presided by High Court judge Supang Lian.
Tawie apologised over his defamatory statements posted on his Facebook account on May 10 and 13 last year, alleging Nancy of abusing her power in directing the tuai rumah (village head) of Sungai Buluh not to welcome Communications and Multimedia Minister Gobind Singh Deo to a Gawai celebration.
He also alleged Nancy had directed the tuai rumah not to cooperate with the Pakatan Harapan (PH) government.
“I wish to apologise to Nancy and the ruling state government of Sarawak for publishing defamatory statements containing false allegations in the said defamatory publications.
“I unreservedly apologise for having published the defamatory publications without any prior independent investigation on my part to assess the veracity of such allegations,” he said.
Nancy said it was good that Tawie had apologised over the matter after her suit.
“It’s more about my dignity (as a person) because I know I did not do anything as alleged. That’s why I went all out for it (prove him wrong).
“I’m happy that the matter has been settled amicably because it has caused a lot of distress to me.
“I shall forgive him as I believe everyone, regardless of race or religion, must be given the opportunity to redeem themselves. Today, we have found a new friend in each other out of this case,” she said.
However, Nancy said there are consequences for defamation.
“While we live in a democratic society that embraces the freedom of expression, we must also understand that such freedom is not absolute, and mustn’t be abused at the expense of others,” she said.
Therefore, in an agreed statement of apology, Tawie is required to publish statements of apology, issued in favour of Nancy, on his Facebook page within three days from today as well as in two local newspapers.
The defendant will also pay costs of RM25,000 to the plaintiff. An initial sum of RM10,000 must be paid within 30 days from today.- FMT
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.