PUTRAJAYA: MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki has initiated legal proceedings against anti-corruption activist Lalitha Kunaratnam for defamation.

       Confirming this, Azam said this was done to protect his good standing and professional reputation.

       “As indicated in the press conference yesterday (Wednesday, Jan 5), I take a very serious view of the various false and malicious allegations made against me personally, my family and the MACC.

       “As advised by my solicitors, I am now compelled to initiate legal proceedings against Ms Lalitha Kunaratnam.

       “I reiterate that I will not hesitate to commence legal proceedings against anyone else who spreads and makes similar false and malicious allegations against me or my family,” he told The Star on Thursday (Jan 6).

       Lalitha, meanwhile, has taken to Twitter to post the letter of demand which she had received from the MACC chief commissioner.

       “I have received a Letter of Demand from @SPRMMALAYSIA Chief Commissioner. Thanks,” said Lalitha, who goes by the Twitter handle @LalithaVelvet.

       On Wednesday, Azam had said that he will take legal action against those who had defamed him over the share issues.

       He said action will also be taken against those who had tarnished his reputation and that of the MACC.