But he also wants to keep the door open to work together with the PAS leader to “save Malaysia”, so long as Hadi “bertaubat” (repent).
Yesterday, Hadi was reported as saying Lim was against an Islamic state — “dia masih menentang negara Islam” — and against a controversial shariah law amendment bill moved by PAS in parliament.
Hadi said that the cooperation Lim had sought would not work for PAS, as it was against the Islamic party’s struggle.
Lim told FMT today that despite leaving the door open for discussion, taking Hadi to court was important, as the comments made against him were serious.
“In Malaysia, being told you are anti-Islam is a very serious matter. That is something that cannot be tolerated in a plural society.
“So as a matter of principle and to stop them from hurling baseless accusations at me, I am left with no choice but to consider a legal suit,” Lim said when contacted.
He gave an example of the KL High Court ruling in favour of Shah Alam MP Khalid Samad, who was accused by another of calling him “anti-Islam”.
“The judge in the case has said such remarks carried a dire consequence for the victim, in this case, Khalid.” Lim said.
Earlier, in a press conference, Lim reiterated that he was not anti-Islam and had supported the PAS “for all” slogan during the 2013 General Election.
Lim said Hadi could have said no to working with DAP, but should not have resorted to slandering him and the party.
Lim said Hadi’s comments were “haughty, arrogant but misconceived and misinformed”.
He said he would discuss with his lawyers if a lawsuit against Hadi can be launched.
Lim then repeated his call to PAS to work together to war against corruption in the ruling government. He said he didn’t mind working with Hadi, as long as he “repented”.
“I am prepared to work with anybody, even the PM… if Hadi is willing to taubat (repent), yes. Anyone who is willing to save Malaysia,” Lim said in a press conference at the Penang chief minister’s Chinese New Year open house here today.
Hadi had rebuffed Lim’s offer last week to work together to fend off a “kleptocratic” Malaysia, offering a rare olive branch after their two parties split over disagreements on implementing hudud law in Kelantan. The two parties cut ties in 2015.