Did Tommy Thomas breach the Official Secrets Act with his memoir?

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Former Attorney General Alleges Breach of Official Secrets Act by Successor

Former attorney general Tan Sri Mohamed Apandi Ali has lodged a police report alleging that his successor, Tan Sri Tommy Thomas, violated the Official Secrets Act (OSA) through his recently published memoir, My Story: Justice in the Wilderness. Apandi stated that the report was filed not only for himself but also for others who have been scandalised and humiliated by the book, particularly officers within the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC).
Allegations of Wrongdoing in Memoir

Apandi’s lawyer, Datuk Baljit Singh Sidhu, confirmed that the police report details potential wrongdoing under the Official Secrets Act 1972. While the specific revelations causing concern were not disclosed, the report also points to possible violations of Sections 203A and 500 of the Penal Code. Section 203A pertains to the criminal disclosure of information obtained by civil servants, carrying penalties of fines, imprisonment, or both, while Section 500 addresses criminal defamation.
Impact on Attorney General’s Chambers Officers

Apandi expressed sympathy for AGC officers, who he believes are placed in a difficult position by Thomas's book. He suggested that these officers are now compelled to defend themselves while simultaneously potentially contradicting their former superior. Apandi described the officers as the "backbone of the legal service" and defended their dedication, stating he found no fault with their service during his own tenure from 2015 to 2018.
Apandi's Stance on State Secrets

The former attorney general emphasised his commitment to confidentiality, asserting that as a former AG, there were many matters he would not disclose due to their nature as state secrets. He indicated that such information would never appear in his own memoirs, drawing a contrast with the allegations made against Thomas's publication. Thomas's 500-page memoir, released on January 30, has generated significant controversy regarding events during his term as AG from 2018 to 2020.

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Did Tommy Thomas breach the Official Secrets Act with his memoir?

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