What prompted the RM50 million defamation claim against MP Ong Kian Ming?

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RM50 Million Defamation Claim Prompted by Retweet of Sierra Leone Corruption Allegations

Bangi MP Ong Kian Ming is facing a RM50 million defamation claim initiated by Datuk Gail Phung, a senior vice president at LimKokWing University of Creative Technology (LUCT). The legal action stems from Ong Kian Ming's retweet of a social media post that shared an article detailing a probe by the Sierra Leone government into LUCT's alleged corrupt dealings and questionable practices. Ong Kian Ming maintains that his retweet was intended to inform Malaysian authorities and raise public interest, aligning with his parliamentary duties.
Retweet of Defamatory Content

The notice of demand, served to Ong Kian Ming on September 4, asserts that he retweeted a defamatory statement concerning Datuk Gail Phung. This retweet, originally posted by social media user @IamTheAdeline on August 6, highlighted serious accusations against LUCT's operations in Sierra Leone. The shared article indicated that the country's government was investigating the university for alleged corrupt dealings.
Public Interest and Parliamentary Role

Ong Kian Ming contends that the allegations against LUCT in Sierra Leone constitute a significant public interest issue. He believes that as a Member of Parliament, it is within his remit to bring such matters to the attention of relevant Malaysian authorities, including the Ministry of Higher Education. He explicitly stated that his intention was not to endorse or refute the original tweet but to provide context and alert officials, emphasizing that such accusations against a prominent Malaysian university operating abroad could adversely affect the country's higher education branding internationally.
Refusal to Apologise and Legal Instructions

In response to the demand, Ong Kian Ming has stated his refusal to issue a public apology or pay the RM50 million in damages. He asserts that his actions were consistent with his role as a lawmaker and his prior engagement with issues concerning higher education. He has instructed his lawyer, Syahredzan Johan, to formally respond to the notice of demand, signaling his intent to contest the defamation claim.

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What prompted the RM50 million defamation claim against MP Ong Kian Ming?

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