Muda has called on the Pahang government to retract its threat to sue an environmentalist for defamation over comments linked to the state’s involvement in logging activities.
The opposition party’s co-founder Lim Wei Jiet said it was disappointing that instead of addressing the allegation, the state government decided to issue a letter of demand against Pertubuhan Pelindung Khazanah Alam Malaysia (Peka) president Shariffa Sabrina Syed Akil.
He added that the legal threat amounted to a form of intimidation against activists who play a key role in highlighting environmental issues.
The lawyer said NGOs are engaged in efforts to help the public understand the major impact of climate change, uncontrolled logging and environmental destruction.
Lim (above) pointed out this is especially so in light of the recent floods that hit Pahang, Selangor and Johor which had a widespread adverse impact on society.
Constructive talks needed
“Even if the Pahang government disagrees with Peka’s statement, it should have instead responded with facts and not via a lawsuit threat.
“Muda stands in solidarity with the Peka president as well as other environmental activists and NGOs.
“Muda also urges the Pahang government to withdraw the legal letter against the Peka president and instead start a constructive dialogue with environmental NGOs for the benefit of the people as well as the natural environment of Pahang,” Lim said in a statement.
Yesterday, Malaysiakini reported that through the letter of demand, the Pahang government demanded an apology and RM1 million in compensation from Shariffa for alleged defamation over comments made on the state's involvement in logging activities.
Through its lawyers from law firm Hidayah Ishak & Partners, the state government claimed that the statements gave the impression that it was irresponsible and lacked integrity.
The alleged defamatory statements were in relation to two Facebook posts on Shariffa’s personal account dated last Dec 29 and 30, as well as during an interview with Sinar Harian on Jan 12.
Shariffa was reported to have said that the legal demands were “outrageous” over her raising issues of public concern regarding the environment, adding that her lawyers are looking into the next course of action. - Mkini
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