During a “PN Best” ceramah in Balik Pulau on June 2, 2023, Fauzi had accused Rayer of being racist, arrogant, and irresponsible.

He also claimed Rayer had told fire victims in Jelutong that he did not care about losing Malay and Indian votes.

Reading out his apology before the sessions court here, Fauzi said the remarks were made without verifying the accuracy of what some people had told him.

He also said that the information came from people in an “emotional state”.

“To avoid prologing the matter further, and to focus on more meaningful work, like helping the people of Penang, I offer this public and unconditional apology to YB RSN Rayer,” he said.

Fauzi, the Penang opposition leader, also retracted the remarks made at the ceramah.

The apology was recorded as part of a consent judgment before judge Helmi Ghani.

As part of the terms, Fauzi will pay Rayer RM10,000 in costs: RM5,000 by May 24 and the remaining RM5,000 by June 24.

Lawyers K Simon Murali and Kok Yuen Lin appeared for Rayer, while Fauzi was represented by Yusfarizal Yusoff.

In his statement of claim, Rayer said Fauzi’s statements were baseless and had damaged his reputation.

He sought damages and a public apology, including one posted on social media platforms.