The libel suit filed by former Penang state assembly speaker Abdul Halim Hussain against state Umno liaison secretary Musa Sheikh Fadzir was resolved yesterday upon the agreement of both parties.

The agreement to resolve the case was recorded by Judicial Commissioner S. Nantha Balan when the case was brought before him.

Earlier, counsel Abu Bakar As-Sidek, representing Musa, told the court that his client had no intention to defame Abdul Halim ( left ) when asked by reporters on the plaintiff’s involvement with regard to the Escape Theme Park project in Teluk Bahang at a press conference on Sept 27, 2012.

He said Musa also received clarification from Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng that Abdul Halim was never involved and had no interest in the project and the company, Sim Leisure Consultants Sdn Bhd, which was awarded the project.

“In the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan, both parties believe that an amicable settlement of this matter would be in the best interest of both parties,” said Abu Bakar.

The court set no costs and damages.

In the suit filed on Nov 1, 2012, Abdul Halim claimed that Musa’s statement on the project was defamatory and could tarnish his credibility and image as state assembly speaker at the time.

In his statement of claim, Abdul Halim sought, among others, damages for slander and libel, aggravated damages, interest, costs and other relief deemed fit by the court.

He also applied for an injunction to prevent the defendant from further slandering or making libelous statements against him.

Abdul Halim was represented by lawyer M Kanesan.

When met by reporters, Abdul Halim said he was happy that the case was resolved.

- Bernama