Washington agent: Syed Hamid apologizes, Anwar withdraws RM100 mil defamation suit

Datuk Seri ‎Dr Anwar Ibrahim today withdrew his RM100 million defamation suit against Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar  in chambers, without cost, after the latter apologised over an article in which he allegedly implied the PKR de facto chief was a traitor.

"We came to an amicable solution, even though it was in chambers. Tan Sri‎ Syed Hamid said he did not intend to offend me and does not consider the article as being accurate.

"Because of the confusion, he apologised‎, and I have accepted it positively. I have withdrawn my suit because he has apologised, because he did not intend it," Anwar told reporters at the Kuala Lumpur court complex today.

Anwar filed the suit on August 29, 2008, and had named former home minister Syed Hamid and the Malaysian government as defendants.

He claimed Syed Hamid had uttered defamatory words against him at a press conference at the Parliament lobby on July 28, which were subsequently published in The Star newspaper the following day, according to Bernama.

Anwar had said the article carrying Syed Hamid's remarks implied he was a traitor, disloyal to his religion and race and‎ untrustworthy.

"I am appreciative of Hamid that he retracted his statement and clarified it was not his intention as reported in the media and, therefore, apologised," said Anwar today.

"There will be no costs because it involves the DPP (deputy public prosecutor). No way can I get any costs," he said in jest.

He considered the case settled "in good faith" and urged all partied to move forward‎. –TMI