PAS Youth Backs Kamarul Zaman in Defamation Suit Against Hannah Yeoh
Legal Battle Over Allegations of Religious Proselytism
PETALING JAYA: The controversy surrounding the defamation suit filed by Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh against former lecturer Kamarul Zaman Yusoff has taken a new turn, with PAS Youth throwing its weight behind Kamarul.
Factual Analysis or Slander?
In a statement, PAS Youth chief Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden described Kamarul’s statements against Yeoh as "factual analysis" and not slander as claimed by the minister. "They are not slander or reckless accusations, but rather a factual analysis that aims to raise awareness of the subtle threat to the position of Islam as the religion of the federation," he said.
Right to Voice Opinion
Afnan emphasized that the right to voice one’s opinion is a fundamental right guaranteed under the Federal Constitution. "PAS Youth views this issue seriously, especially when it contradicts the country’s official religion and touches on Malay-Muslim sensitivities, disrupting societal harmony in this country," he added.
Background to the Dispute
Yeoh filed the suit in 2022 over two Facebook posts by Kamarul in May 2017, in which he accused the Segambut MP of attempting to "proselytise Christianity through her politics." Kamarul, a former special officer to then Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob, also claimed that Yeoh’s biography, Becoming Hannah: A Personal Journey, drives a "Christian agenda" and that she intends to convert Malaysia into a Christian country.
Kamarul’s Defence
In his statement of defence, Kamarul argued that his two Facebook posts were not defamatory and were justified. Yeoh, on the other hand, contends that the words are offensive, completely untrue, and a malicious attempt to seriously defame her. She is seeking general, aggravated, and exemplary damages from Kamarul.
Conclusion
The legal battle between Yeoh and Kamarul has sparked a heated debate about the limits of free speech and the role of religion in Malaysian politics. As the case proceeds, it remains to be seen whether Kamarul’s "factual analysis" will be deemed acceptable by the courts or whether Yeoh’s claims of defamation will prevail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the allegations at the center of the dispute?
A: Kamarul accused Yeoh of attempting to proselytize Christianity through her politics and claimed that her biography promotes a Christian agenda.
Q: What is the basis for Kamarul’s claims?
A: According to Kamarul, Yeoh’s biography, Becoming Hannah: A Personal Journey, drives a "Christian agenda" and she intends to convert Malaysia into a Christian country.
Q: What is the response of PAS Youth to the controversy?
A: PAS Youth has thrown its weight behind Kamarul, describing his statements as "factual analysis" and not slander.