Why was Siti Kasim awarded RM160,000 in damages?

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Siti Kasim Awarded RM160,000 in Damages Following Successful Civil Suit

The High Court awarded lawyer and activist Siti Kasim RM160,000 in damages after allowing her civil suit against the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (Jawi), its officers, and other defendants. This award stems from her unlawful arrest and detention during a private fundraising event in 2016. The court found that Siti Kasim was wrongfully arrested and falsely imprisoned, and that the defendants committed misfeasance in public office.
Wrongful Arrest and False Imprisonment Found

The High Court judge determined that Siti Kasim had proven, on the balance of probabilities, that she was wrongfully arrested and falsely imprisoned by two Jawi officers. This occurred after she exited the hotel ballroom where the private fundraising event was being held. The court's finding established that her liberty was unlawfully curtailed by the actions of these officers.
Misfeasance in Public Office Established

The judge concluded that the defendants engaged in misfeasance in public office. This finding was based on their conduct in conducting a raid and apprehending an individual without ensuring their powers were exercised lawfully. The court viewed this action as causing unnecessary fear and discomfort, indicating an abuse of official capacity.
Suit Filed Over Unlawful Detention and Rights Violation

Siti Kasim initiated her civil suit in September 2019, asserting claims of false imprisonment, misfeasance in public office, and a violation of her constitutional right to personal liberty. She consistently maintained that she was performing her duties as a legal practitioner at the time and had not obstructed any officers. This legal action sought redress for the alleged transgressions.
Exemplary and Aggravated Damages Awarded

The court ordered the defendants to pay a total of RM160,000 in damages to Siti Kasim. This amount comprises RM100,000 in exemplary damages and RM60,000 in aggravated damages. Additionally, the defendants were ordered to pay RM100,000 in legal costs to the plaintiff, reflecting the court's judgment on the severity of the infringement.

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Why was Siti Kasim awarded RM160,000 in damages?

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