World · Malaysia Bureau
Umno Youth Chief Halts Public Donations for Defamation Damages
Akmal Amaral has called on the public to stop contributing funds toward his RM300,000 defamation damages payment to Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, stating he plans to settle the debt through personal asset sales.
LSN Malaysia ·
The Umno Youth chief said Wednesday he intended to raise the required sum by selling his motorcycle and fish stocks rather than accepting public donations. Akmal made the appeal after losing a defamation suit brought by Kok, resulting in the substantial financial obligation.
Akmal's announcement comes as supporters had begun offering financial assistance to help cover the court-ordered damages. However, the Umno leader said he preferred to resolve the matter independently through the liquidation of personal assets, declining public contributions to settle the judgment.
The defamation case centered on statements made against the Seputeh MP, with the court ruling in Kok's favour and awarding the damages. Akmal's decision to pursue alternative funding methods signals his determination to meet the financial obligation without relying on external support from party members or the general public.
The case has drawn attention to defamation proceedings in Malaysia's political landscape, with several high-profile figures facing similar litigation in recent years. Akmal's commitment to settling the damages through personal means reflects broader discussions about accountability in political speech.