Mahathir had demanded that Anwar withdraw his remarks, made at a PKR congress last month, or be sued for defamation.

In a reply to Mahathir’s demand, Anwar’s lawyer, Alliff Benjamin Suhaimi, said: “We are ready to answer any allegations in court” if Mahathir proceeds with the suit.

The dispute is over Anwar’s claim, in a speech at the PKR congress, that Mahathir had enriched his family during his time in office. Mahathir was prime minister from 1981-2003 and 2018-2020.

A letter of demand was issued to Anwar on March 28 asking him to make a retraction and a public apology. Earlier today, Mahathir reminded Anwar that today is the last day to respond.

Anwar, who is PKR president, had previously said he would provide proof to back the statements he made at the congress.