Lim said the contribution was part of his commitment to channel the funds to organisations in need, despite his failed appeal against the court’s decision.

“Utar helps many poor Chinese students who could not get into public universities and cannot afford private ones. I hope this money can help them continue their studies,” he told a press conference at The Ming Room Restaurant at Bangsar Shopping Centre here today.

The handover took place during a brief ceremony at a private luncheon witnessed by DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook, who commended Lim for honouring his word and handling the donations in a transparent manner.

“He has proven himself to be trustworthy and someone who keeps his promises. The more than 16,000 donors who helped raise RM2.2 million show the strong public sentiment and support behind him,” Loke said.

In 2023, Lim was ordered by the High Court to pay RM2 million in damages to MonSpace (M) Sdn Bhd CEO Jessy Lai following a defamation suit over remarks he made accusing the company of running an illegal business and cheating Chinese investors.

The Court of Appeal later reduced the amount to RM75,000, ruling that the original sum was excessive but maintaining that Lim’s statements were defamatory.

Utar council member and former minister Chor Chee Heong, who received the cheque on behalf of the university, said the funds would be used to support students and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Hospital in Kampar.