Kuala lumpur: Political activist Badrul Hisham Shaharin, better known as Chegubard, has been barred by the High Court from publishing or disseminating any allegedly defamatory statements against a senior military officer on social media pending the disposal of a defamation suit.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, lawyer Mohamed Baharudeen Mohamed Ariff, representing Major General Faridhulathroth Hashim, stated that the High Court Judge Roslan Mat Nor granted an interim injunction in favor of his client during the proceedings last Tuesday. The interim order remains effective until the resolution of the lawsuit and prohibits Badrul Hisham or his representatives from publishing, republishing, disseminating, or continuing to disseminate any statements, images, or references concerning the plaintiff, except when necessary for court proceedings.
Additionally, the court mandated that all online publications and references under the defendant's control be hidden. The court further directed the defendant to pay RM3,000 in costs to the plaintiff. This information was relayed by lawyer Mohamed Baharudeen Mohamed Ariff when contacted.
Lawyer Muhammad Rafique Rashid Ali, representing Badrul Hisham, confirmed the court order. The lawsuit was filed by Faridhulathroth, an Assistant Chief of Staff (Intelligence) at the Army Headquarters Intelligence Branch, on April 21. It alleges that Badrul Hisham published six defamatory statements on his Facebook page between December 31, 2023, and January 17. The statements concern the plaintiff's alleged criminal activities and misconduct.
The statement of claim indicates that the publications implied Faridhulathroth was the mastermind or a key figure in high-level corruption within the Malaysian Army. It also suggests he abused his intelligence role to protect the personal interests of senior officers allegedly involved in unlawful activities, rather than safeguarding national security.
The plaintiff argues that these publications have significantly damaged his reputation and standing. He is seeking general, aggravated, and exemplary damages, as well as any other relief deemed appropriate by the court.