What specific defamatory statements were made against the Sultanah of Terengganu?

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Federal Court Affirms Defamation Liability for Sarawak Report Editor and Publishers

The Federal Court has upheld a Court of Appeal ruling that Clare Rewcastle-Brown, the editor of Sarawak Report, along with publisher Chong Ton Sin and printer Vinlin Press Sdn Bhd, are liable for defaming the Sultanah of Terengganu, Sultanah Nur Zahirah. The defamation claim stemmed from statements made within the book titled “The Sarawak Report — The Inside Story of the 1Malaysia Development Bhd (IMDB) Expose.” The apex court dismissed the trio's application for leave to appeal, finding that the questions of law presented did not satisfy the necessary threshold for novelty and public importance.
Defamation Claims Related to the IMDB Expose Book

The legal proceedings centre on allegations of defamation made by Sultanah Nur Zahirah concerning content within the book authored by Clare Rewcastle-Brown. While the book played a significant role in uncovering the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal, the Federal Court underscored that this context does not grant immunity from defamation claims. Justice Nallini Pathmanathan stated that regardless of the book's importance, its author and associated parties remain accountable if defamation of a third party occurs, emphasizing that all individuals are equal before the law.
High Court Decision Overturned by Court of Appeal

Previously, the High Court had dismissed Sultanah Nur Zahirah's RM100 million lawsuit against Rewcastle-Brown, Chong, and Vinlin Press. However, the Court of Appeal overturned this decision on December 12 of the previous year. The appellate court ruled that the statements published in the book were calculated to expose the Sultanah to hatred, ridicule, or contempt. Consequently, the Court of Appeal awarded RM300,000 in damages to Sultanah Nur Zahirah.
Legal Standing and Equality Before the Law

Justice Nallini further clarified that Sultanah Nur Zahirah, as a member of a royal family, is equally entitled to equal treatment under the law. Her background does not preclude her from filing a claim or receiving the same consideration as any member of the public. The court stressed that her royal status should not be held against her, reinforcing the principle of equality in legal proceedings. The Federal Court also awarded costs of RM15,000 to Sultanah Nur Zahirah.

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What specific defamatory statements were made against the Sultanah of Terengganu?

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