Nizam Refutes Fake WhatsApp Chat, lodged Police Report

4 September 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Nizam Datuk Seri Panglima Abu Bakar Titingan, has strongly denied allegations linking him to a viral WhatsApp conversation, describing it as vile slander aimed at damaging his reputation and tarnishing the image of Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat).

Nizam, who is also Gagasan Rakyat’s Information Chief, said he lodged a police report on the matter at the Kota Kinabalu District Police Headquarters (IPD) yesterday afternoon. He also instructed his lawyer to issue a Letter of Demand (LOD) against an individual named Tandiko Bin Dalusin, who is also known by his Facebook account “Huzaifah Al-Likasi”, alleged to be the main perpetrator behind the circulation of the fake screenshot.

“I never sent the messages that were spread. They are fabricated slander, created with malicious intent to discredit me and disrupt public order,” he said in a statement yesterday.

According to Nizam, the baseless nature of the political slander was made clear when Warisan Information Chief, Datuk Mohd Azis Jamman, himself admitted during a live broadcast yesterday afternoon that the viral WhatsApp screenshot was fake.

“The admission by an opposition leader proves the messages were fabricated and had nothing to do with me,” he said.

He stressed that politics should be grounded in arguments, facts and ideas, not in slander and manipulation that not only smear an individual’s reputation but also risk causing public unrest, particularly when linked to sensitive issues such as “Justice for Zara”.

“I leave it to the authorities, including the police and MCMC, to take swift action against those involved,” he added.

At the same time, Nizam also commented on the “Justice for Zara Qairina” gathering in Tawau on 31 August, which he described as a show of solidarity by the community over the tragic death of the child.

While respecting the people’s right to voice their concerns and demand justice, he reminded that such gatherings must not be tainted by speeches or actions that breach the law.

“The police have taken action regarding the seditious remarks made during the rally, and we respect the ongoing legal process. What matters most now is ensuring that public focus is not diverted from the real objective, which is to seek truth, justice, and long-term solutions for the safety of our students,” he said.