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THE High Court has ruled in favour of businessman Datuk Farhash Wafa Salvador, awarding him RM550,000 in damages in a defamation suit against political activist Badrul Hisham Shaharin, better known as Chegubard, and content creator Nurpais Ismail, over statements made in a podcast last year.
Judicial Commissioner Arziah Apandi declared that the statements by Badrul were “serious, damaging and actionable,” as they had depicted Farhash as corrupt, manipulative, and unworthy of his professional and political roles.
Malay Mail cited today that Farhash had filed the suit after Badrul and Nurpais published a series of statements and videos in May 2023, which alleged corruption, abuse of power, and improper dealings linked to government contracts. He contended that the claims were false, malicious, and harmful to his reputation.
In her judgment, Commissioner Arziah concluded that both defendants had acted with malice. She highlighted that Badrul presented his assertions as factual observations, while Nurpais intensified their impact with sensational titles and refused to remove the video even after receiving a legal notice.
“They have tarnished his reputation by portraying him as corrupt, dishonest and undeserving of his titles and achievements,” the judge said, emphasising that the statements had inflicted harm on Farhash’s personal, political, and commercial standing.
The court identified Badrul as the “originator” of the defamatory remarks, while Nurpais was deemed the “publisher who disseminated them to vast audiences.” Neither defendant appeared in court for the proceedings.
The award comprises RM300,000 in general damages, RM150,000 in aggravated damages, and RM100,000 in exemplary damages, in addition to RM40,000 in legal costs.
The ruling underscores the judiciary’s stance on the accountability of individuals who publish false or malicious content and the legal protections available to those whose reputations are unfairly attacked. - January 29, 2026
