Defamation is a civil wrong that occurs when someone makes a false statement about you that damages your reputation. These statements can be spoken (slander) or written (libel). Under Malaysian law, defamation cases are taken seriously, and those affected are entitled to seek legal recourse.
Libel: Written or published defamation (news articles, social media, blogs, WhatsApp messages and etc).
Slander: Spoken defamation (verbal statements).
Yes. Defamatory content published on social media, websites, forums, WhatsApp, Telegram, and emails is treated as libel.
Yes. Companies can sue if false statements damage their business reputation, credibility, or goodwill.
• False allegations of fraud or criminal conduct
• Accusations of professional incompetence
• Fake reviews with malicious intent
• False claims made by competitors or ex-employees
Pure opinions are generally not defamatory. However, opinions presented as facts or based on false assumptions may still be defamatory.
Yes. Courts may allow actions against unknown persons and compel platforms to disclose identities.
Yes. Republishers, sharers, or administrators may also be liable in certain circumstances.
Key laws include:
• Defamation Act 1957
• Common law principles
• Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (for online content)
Yes. Criminal defamation exists, but civil defamation is more commonly pursued for damages and injunctions.
• Monetary damages
• Court injunctions
• Apologies and retractions
• Removal of defamatory content