KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 31): The Alor Setar High Court on Wednesday ruled Amanah vice-president Mahfuz Omar had defamed Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor over Mahfuz’s statement regarding the allegation of a Vellfire multi-purpose vehicle allegedly purchased by Syarikat Air Darul Aman for Sanusi's usage.

The decision was made by High Court judge Dr Arik Sanusi Yeop Johari who ordered Mahfuz to pay RM200,000 in general and RM50,000 in exemplary damages.

Besides this, Arik also directed Mahfuz to pay RM30,000.

The outcome of the case has been confirmed to The Edge by Sanusi’s lawyer Mohd Yusfarizal Yussoff whereby Mahfuz is given 14 days to pay the sum.

Sanusi said the car was purchased by the utilities company according to proper regulations for the usage of its board of directors and the company’s senior officers.

The Kedah MB was reported to have said that those who made the allegation against him should check their facts first before hurling accusations against him.