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Malaysia Drops Defamation Case Against Journalist After Mediation

2/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) withdrew a defamation case against Australian resident Murray Hunter in a Thai court after mediation.
MCMC acknowledged a settlement on January 12, dropping both criminal and civil proceedings linked to Hunter's Substack articles.
IFEX criticized Malaysia's use of SLAPPs and criminal defamation laws, stating they intimidate individuals from expressing critical views.
Human rights organizations, including PEN International and Human Rights Watch, protested Hunter's arrest.

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Story summary

Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) withdrew a defamation case against Australian resident Murray Hunter in a Thai court after mediation.
MCMC acknowledged a settlement on January 12, dropping both criminal and civil proceedings linked to Hunter's Substack articles.
IFEX criticized Malaysia's use of SLAPPs and criminal defamation laws, stating they intimidate individuals from expressing critical views.
Human rights organizations, including PEN International and Human Rights Watch, protested Hunter's arrest.