DAP Sarawak chief vows to keep fighting to clear Michael Kong's name after court setback

Chong also appealed for public support, saying any form of encouragement for Kong would be sincerely appreciated by those who believe in the principles underpinning the case.
KUCHING (June 18): Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen today affirmed that efforts to clear Michael Kong Feng Nian's name will continue.
This follows the Court of Appeal's dismissal of Kong's application for a stay of execution in a defamation suit filed by Datuk Richard Wee Liang Chiat.
The Court of Appeal rejected Kong's application to stay the High Court's judgement, which had ordered him to pay RM250,000 (RM200,000 in damages and RM50,000 in legal costs) to Wee for defaming him in a Facebook post dated July 21, 2020.
The appellate court's decision upholds the High Court ruling delivered on Jan 26, 2024.
The judgment also includes a 5 per cent annual interest on the damages, calculated from the date of publication until full settlement.
Chong in a statement said with today's ruling, Kong must now pay the RM200,000 judgment sum, accrued interests and a total of RM60,000 in costs—bringing the financial burden to about RM310,000.
'While it is deeply regrettable that such a hefty amount must be paid before the Court of Appeal hears and decides on the merits of the appeal, we must nevertheless respect and comply with the Court's decision,' he said.
'Kong's political struggle and legal battle alongside this journey has not been easy, but together with Kong, we remain steadfast in his conviction and will continue to pursue the appeal to clear his name.'
Chong also appealed for public support, saying any form of encouragement for Kong would be sincerely appreciated by those who believe in the principles underpinning the case.
Kong, who is Chong's special assistant, was represented in the legal proceedings by Chong himself along with his legal team. Chong Chieng Jen Court lead Michael Kong Richard Wee

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