Settlement Reached in Former Finas CEO’s Lawsuit Over Unlawful Termination
Background
Former Finas CEO Nasir Ibrahim had sought to nullify his termination letter dated May 31, 2023, and to claim RM135,000 in special damages and general damages. (Bernama pic)
Settlement Reached
A suit brought by Nasir Ibrahim over his unlawful termination has been settled. In a consent judgment recorded before High Court judge Roz Mawar Rozain, all defendants – except communications minister Fahmi Fadzil – agreed to issue a press statement clarifying that Nasir was not dismissed due to misconduct. The statement will also include Finas’s appreciation of his contributions during his time in service.
Terms of Settlement
As part of the settlement, Nasir will withdraw his lawsuit in exchange for an undisclosed amount of compensation, with no order to costs. Lawyer A Srimurugan, who represented Nasir, confirmed the matter.
Facts of the Case
In his writ and statement of claim filed on June 28, 2023, Nasir said he was appointed the Finas CEO on a two-year contract commencing on November 1, 2021, with a monthly salary of RM20,000 and RM6,800 in allowances. However, his contract was terminated prematurely, effective May 31, 2023, via a letter signed by the minister on May 5.
Arguments and Claims
Nasir argued that his appointment was governed by the Statutory Bodies (Discipline and Surcharge) Act 2000, which allowed the minister to terminate his services with 30 days’ notice or by paying one month’s salary instead. He said he was asked to leave in June after being paid one month’s salary. Nasir argued that the termination was done in bad faith, as he was not provided with a good reason for his removal, and that it had caused him embarrassment and mental distress. He had sought a court declaration nullifying the termination letter signed by Kamil, along with RM135,000 in special damages and general damages.
Conclusion
The settlement brings an end to the lawsuit, with Nasir withdrawing his claims and the defendants issuing a press statement to clarify the circumstances of his termination. The settlement provides a resolution for all parties involved, and Nasir will receive an undisclosed amount of compensation in exchange for withdrawing his lawsuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What did Nasir claim in his lawsuit?
A: Nasir claimed that his termination was unlawful and sought to nullify his termination letter dated May 31, 2023, and claim RM135,000 in special damages and general damages.
Q: What was the outcome of the lawsuit?
A: The lawsuit was settled, with Nasir withdrawing his claims and the defendants issuing a press statement to clarify the circumstances of his termination.
Q: What is the Statutory Bodies (Discipline and Surcharge) Act 2000?
A: The Act is a Malaysian law that governs the termination of services of statutory bodies, including the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas).