Saifuddin obtains default judgment in suit over Kedah FC claims

PETALING JAYA: PKR leader Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has obtained a default judgment in a suit against a social media user over allegations involving Kedah Darul Aman (KDA) FC.

Representing Saifuddin, law firm SN Nair & Partners said the Alor Setar High Court today affirmed the default judgment entered against Zubair Ismail last year.

The firm said Zubair attempted to set aside the default judgment on grounds that it was irregular but the court rejected the argument.

“The court found that the defendant failed to establish the existence of a bona fide defence to the plaintiff’s claim.

“It also noted that the defendant failed to exhibit a draft defence and had not adduced sufficient evidence to demonstrate that he possessed a defence on the merits with a realistic prospect of success,” the lawyers said.

The court ordered Zubair to pay RM8,000 in costs, and will deliver its assessment of damages later.

Saifuddin filed the suit against Zubair last year for alleging that the home minister ordered the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and Inland Revenue Board to investigate KDA FC, causing sponsors to withdraw support for the team.

Zubair’s comments were posted on his Facebook and TikTok accounts.

Saifuddin, the PKR election director and Pakatan Harapan secretary-general, filed the suit after Zubair failed to apologise for the claims.