Businessman ordered to pay neighbour RM248,000 after attack by German Shepherds

A Malaysian businessman, Kamal Abdullah, has been ordered to pay RM248,457.60 in damages to his neighbor, Ong Thiam Boon, following a 2021 incident where Ong's German Shepherds allegedly chased Kamal while he was jogging. Sessions Court Judge Zawiyah Saad ruled in favor of Kamal, finding Ong liable for the injuries he sustained.

Kamal was awarded RM178,457.60 in special damages, which covered his medical expenses and the costs associated with his spinal fracture that required surgery and further medical treatment. Additionally, Kamal was awarded RM70,000 in general damages, which encompassed pain and suffering, and accumulated interest. He was also granted RM15,000 in legal costs.

Kamal initiated legal action against Ong, alleging that the dogs charged at him during his jog, causing him to lose balance and fall, resulting in a spinal fracture. Kamal contended that Ong failed to maintain control over the dogs and ensure his gate remained closed. Ong, on the other hand, denied any involvement in the attack, asserting that Kamal had lost his balance on a steep and uneven road while waving a walking stick at the dogs.

Ong further argued that Kamal's injuries were primarily due to his own negligence. Ong also filed a counterclaim, claiming that Kamal had threatened him, causing fear, humiliation, and mental distress. However, the court dismissed Ong's counterclaim. The case was represented by Shahril Madisa for Kamal and Tan Shao Jia and Wong Win Xien for Ong.