Ahmad Muzaini Mydin, a PAS member, is also seeking an injunction against Asri, popularly known as Dr Maza.

In his statement of claim filed at the Perlis High Court, Muzaini claims that Asri had inferred that he was involved in plans to douse Asri with acid so as to injure the mufti, and set his car on fire.

The businessman also claims Asri had referred to him as an extremist, a criminal, an inhumane person, and one who was prepared to hurt those who held differing views.

Muzaini, who owns a chain of restaurants in Perlis, said the posts, which identified him through an accompanying photograph, were made after Asri’s car had been set alight in 2019.

He claimed that the statements had smeared his reputation and credibility and caused him irreparable damage.

He said the mufti had made the statements in bad faith and was motivated by political vengeance.

Muzaini is seeking an apology from Asri, and an order that he be restrained from issuing further statements defamatory of him.

He is also seeking aggravated damages.