Facebook user fails to defer RM300,000 payment to Perlis mufti

A Facebook user's bid to defer a RM300,000 payment obligation to the Mufti of Perlis has been unsuccessful in the High Court. The court's decision marks a setback for the defendant, Nawawi Abdul Razak, in his legal dispute with Asri Zainul Abidin, the Perlis mufti.

However, the High Court has granted Nawawi a partial reprieve by allowing him to postpone his apology to the mufti while his appeal against the judgment remains pending. This stay on the apology requirement provides the defendant with a temporary relief as he pursues further legal action to challenge the court's original ruling.

The case centers on allegations related to statements made on social media. The substantial financial award reflects the court's assessment of damages in the dispute. Nawawi's legal team continues to prepare arguments for the appeal stage, where they may seek to overturn or reduce the financial obligation.

The decision underscores the courts' enforcement of defamation and damages claims arising from online conduct, a growing area of litigation across the region as social media usage expands.