Case closed: PM Anwar, Pendang MP settle defamation suit

According to the High Court in Kuala Lumpur, the defamation lawsuit filed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim against Pendang MP Datuk Awang Solahuddin Hashim has been settled amicably, with both parties withdrawing the case. Anwar's lawyer, Datuk SN Nair, informed the judge that the plaintiff had decided to withdraw the suit without an order for costs or the option to file a new case.

The mutually agreed public statement was attached to the consent motion. The defamation suit was filed on March 3, 2023, following allegations made by Awang Solahuddin during a Dewan Rakyat sitting on February 21, 2023. The statements, which were later published, alleged that Anwar had abused his powers as Prime Minister and Finance Minister to interfere with law enforcement agencies for personal political reasons.

Awang Solahuddin's lawyer, Yusfarizal Yussoff, confirmed the settlement and stated that his client had withdrawn the statements he made on or around February 21, 2023, and vowed not to repeat or republish any similar statements in the future. Both parties expressed gratitude to the judge and court officials for their professionalism, wisdom, and efficiency, and urged others to respect the resolution and refrain from using the case to undermine national harmony, unity, and stability. The trial dates, originally scheduled for October 26-29, 2026, have been vacated.