Kota Kinabalu: Kadazandusun Murut (KDM) Malaysia President Datuk Peter Anthony was awarded a sum of RM350,000 in general and aggravated damages in a defamation suit he had filed against a businessman.High Court Deputy Registrar Steve Ritikos made the decision in his chambers on Wednesday in the presence of Anthony's counsel Wendy Lee.The court also fixed the sum with interest of five per cent per annum calculated from the date of order to the date of full payment.
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Anthony had filed the suit against Harry Ignatius Beatty who had earlier filed a suit against him alleging that Anthony had taken over as KDM Malaysia President without complying with the law/constitution."However, on Jan 14, 2013, Beatty's suit against me was struck out with costs of RM3,000 to be paid to me," said Anthony in his affidavit.
He also claimed that due to the suit and allegations against him, he had suffered and had been injured in his credit, personal and professional reputation and brought into public scandal, odium and contempt.Anthony also said in his claim that his business and company were also affected by the allegations.
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Anthony said later he was glad to be eventually recognised as the rightful KDM Malaysia President, adding that "the truth is more important than the amount of money awarded by the court".He hoped that after this episode, KDM Malaysia would be left in peace so that it could carry out its education and welfare activities unhindered.
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He said it would be unfortunate if the sincere efforts of the NGO to help the society is disputed and ridiculed with unfounded issues."I would never allow the association to be belittled. It is for this reason that I view seriously any attempt to damage my reputation as well as destroy the name of KDM Malaysia and would not hesitate to initiate legal action," he said.According to him, his lawyers are also studying and considering several allegations by other individuals to be brought to the courts if necessary."It (verdict) is a gift to all KDM members and my supporters," he said. He said the money would be "returned" to the people through KDM's various community-based activities and services.
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The victory, he said, would also spur him to continue the society especially Bumiputeras in rural areas. He said KDM Malaysia has planned more than 40 activities for throughout the year in the districts.