Online Defamation in Malaysia: Legal Guidance from Defamation Lawyers at Messrs Lui & Bhullar

By Messrs Lui & Bhullar

Online Defamation in Malaysia: Legal Guidance from Defamation Lawyers at Messrs Lui & Bhullar

In today’s hyperconnected world, your reputation can be destroyed with a single tweet, Facebook post, or viral video. Whether you’re a business owner, professional, or public figure, the damage caused by social media defamation or online defamation in Malaysia can be immediate and devastating.

At Messrs Lui & Bhullar, we are an established defamation law firm in KL, Malaysia, with extensive experience in handling civil suits for defamation, including slander and libel legal services tailored for digital platforms. If your reputation has been unfairly targeted online, we’re here to help.

What Is Online Defamation?

Online defamation refers to false statements made on the internet that harm a person's or organisation’s reputation. This includes content shared via social media platforms, messaging apps, blogs, forums, and review sites. It is typically categorised into:

• Libel – Written or published defamatory content (e.g. social media posts, blog articles).

• Slander – Spoken defamatory statements or implied gestures, often appearing in videos or voice notes.

If someone publishes false content that damages your reputation and the content is viewed or shared by at least one other person, you may be eligible to sue for defamation in Malaysia.

How Online Defamation Occurs: Common and Realistic Scenarios

Defamation cases involving digital platforms are now more prevalent than ever. Below are examples that reflect how social media defamation in Malaysia typically unfolds:

1. Defamatory Facebook or Twitter Posts

A former client posts a public message on Facebook claiming your company engages in fraud, even though the allegations are completely false. The post gains traction, hurting your brand’s image and revenue.

2. Fake Google Reviews

A competitor posts multiple 1-star Google reviews under fake names, accusing your restaurant of unhygienic practices. This impacts foot traffic and deters potential customers.

3. WhatsApp and Telegram Forwards

An anonymous message circulates in a WhatsApp group alleging a tuition centre mistreats children. Parents begin withdrawing their children based on this false claim.

4. Instagram Stories or TikTok Videos

An influencer uploads a video accusing a boutique of selling counterfeit goods without proof. The video goes viral, and the boutique receives backlash and refund demands.

5. YouTube “Expose” Videos

A YouTuber publishes a video implying that a local property agent is involved in scam activities. The agent is identifiable and loses several clients, despite the claims being baseless.

6. Reddit or Forum Threads

Users in online forums like Lowyat.net post defamatory content about a fintech startup, alleging fraudulent investment schemes. The thread trends and appears in search engine results.

7. Cyberbullying and Harassment

A private individual is subjected to mass harassment through defamatory comments on TikTok and Instagram, causing emotional distress and reputational harm.

8. LinkedIn or Community Facebook Pages

Someone leaves a defamatory review on LinkedIn, claiming a job candidate has a history of misconduct. This false claim deters future employers from hiring the candidate.

Each of these scenarios falls under defamation of character in Malaysia, and victims may be entitled to damages and legal remedies.

How to File a Defamation Case in Malaysia

If you’ve been defamed online, it’s essential to act quickly. Here’s how:

Step 1: Consult a Defamation Lawyer in Malaysia

Engage a qualified defamation lawyer in KL, Malaysia, like those at Messrs Lui & Bhullar, to assess your situation and the strength of your claim.

Step 2: Send a Letter of Demand

We begin by issuing a formal demand to the defamer requesting removal of the content, a public apology, and/or compensation for damages.

Step 3: File a Civil Suit for Defamation

If no resolution is achieved, we will initiate a civil suit for defamation in Malaysia in the appropriate court (Sessions or High Court).

Step 4: Seek Injunctions and Preservation Orders

In urgent cases, we can apply for a court order to prevent the continued publication of defamatory content and preserve evidence.

Identifying Anonymous Defamers

In many cases of online defamation, the culprit may hide behind anonymity. We use a combination of legal and technical strategies to identify them:

• Norwich Pharmacal Orders to compel platforms (Meta, Google, etc.) to disclose user details.

• IP address tracing and forensic cyberinvestigations.

• Preservation orders to prevent the deletion of critical evidence.

Why Choose Messrs Lui & Bhullar?

As a leading defamation law firm in Malaysia, we offer:

• 🛡️ Legal expertise in social media defamation and online defamation cases

• 🛡️ Fast action to contain reputational damage

• 🛡️ Comprehensive support from investigation to litigation

• 🛡️ Transparent strategies tailored to your needs

Take Action Now to Protect Your Reputation

Don’t let false claims define your reputation. Whether you’re a business owner, professional, or private individual, our experienced defamation lawyers in KL, Malaysia, can help you take swift and decisive action.

📞 Contact Messrs Lui & Bhullar today for a Free confidential consultation.

• 📧 Email: general@luibhullar.com

• 📞 WhatsApp: +60143000960 / +60143000970