Representing Kok, law firm SN Nair & Partners served the writ of summons and statement of claim on Akmal, a Melaka executive councillor, today.

Kok is suing Akmal over a video uploaded on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram which she claims were defamatory, slanderous, libellous and derogatory.

The DAP vice-chairman said the Umno leader’s statements also conveyed falsehoods, painting her as racist, insensitive, as well as someone who disrespects Islam and is disloyal to the country, among others.

“The plaintiff’s statements clearly pertain to the process of obtaining halal certification by operators in the food and beverage industry.

“However, these statements have been subjected to ridicule, exaggeration and excessive amplification through the defendant’s oral statements.

“Such misrepresentation by the defendant distorts the original context and intent of the plaintiff’s remarks, potentially misleading the public and unjustly tarnishing the plaintiff’s reputation within her professional domain,” said the statement of claim.

Kok also said Akmal has displayed no remorse over his remarks and has refused to retract them or apologise for making them.

She is seeking general, compensatory, aggravated and exemplary damages from the Merlimau assemblyman, as well as an injunction barring him from repeating his statements.

Akmal previously dismissed a letter of demand from Kok seeking RM25 million in damages and said he would face her in court.

In his video, Akmal had called Kok an “old nyonya lady” and said she should not interfere in Islamic matters, particularly regarding the halal certification proposal.

The Merlimau assemblyman also called Kok an “embarrassment” to the country and said that she had better remain silent on matters concerning Islam.

Both Akmal and Kok have been questioned by the police over the statements they made regarding the issue.