KUCHING: A veteran media practitioner has lodged a police report against a Malaya-based writer for allegedly defaming Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg in two articles published on the Newswav platform.
Rajah Murugaiah filed the report at the central police station last night (June 11), accompanied by social worker Lyna Doll.
The articles in question are titled ‘Opinion: A challenge to you, Abang Jo, if you are as great as you think you are’ (published on June 10, 2024) and ‘When will Abang Jo’s luck run out?’ (May 24, 2024).
Rajah said these articles unjustly smear the reputation and image of Sarawak’s leader, containing malicious and unfounded allegations intended to undermine his leadership and achievements.
He said the content is designed to degrade and humiliate Abang Johari publicly.
“The writer makes numerous unsubstantiated claims regarding Abang Johari’s abilities, attributing his successes solely to luck and denying his skills and efforts.
“Such statements are designed to degrade and humiliate the Premier publicly.
“The articles propagate false views about the Premier’s tenure and the political stability of Sarawak, intending to create distrust and unrest among the public,” said Rajah.
He was confident that the authorities, especially the police, will conduct a thorough investigation into the defamatory claims made by the writer and pursue legal action against him for defamation and spreading false information.
He also urged the authorities to ensure the immediate removal of the defamatory articles from all public domains and to issue a public clarification to counteract the misinformation spread by these articles, which could affect the existing good ties between Putrajaya and the Sarawak government.
The articles accuse Abang Johari of lacking political acumen and talent, suggesting his success is due to sheer luck rather than his capabilities and hard work.
They also propagate harmful misinformation about the Premier’s tenure and the political stability of Sarawak, aiming to create distrust and unrest among the public.
Rajah stressed that Abang Johari has diligently worked towards the economic and social development of Sarawak since his tenure began in January 2017.
He said the malicious content published by the writer aims to undo this progress by creating a false and negative image of the Premier.
