FILM director Syamsul Yusof took to social media to explain his side in the delay in reaching a decision in the high-profile divorce proceedings with estranged wife Puteri Sarah Liyana.
In a video posted on Instagram, a seemingly agitated Syamsul said that he was blindsided when he received a letter with new terms several days before yesterday’s proceedings. According to him, this came after both parties had already reached an agreement and the demands stated in the letter did not reflect their prior agreement.
Syamsul adds that part of the original agreement was that they would both withdraw the nusyuz involving Sarah and Ira Kazar's case – his second wife. He said he originally agreed to the large amount she asked for, despite objections from people close to him in order to put this situation behind and for “the sake of our children.”
“But a few days back, suddenly I received a new agreement from Sarah and her lawyer that was totally different to what we had agreed upon. So, it was Sarah who changed the agreement, and is now asking for more money which to me makes no sense,” he said in the video.
“Sarah also mentioned not to reveal to people what she is asking for. So, I won't mention it. But that is what is happening,” he revealed. He went on to say that she is twisting the story to imply that he is the one that is “making u-turns and changing the agreement.”
He explained that because she is backpedaling on their agreed upon arrangement, he has decided to fight the case in court. “The issue now is why is she suddenly asking for more money? I do not understand. Even though what was given was more than necessary.”
"Like I said earlier, many people disagreed, including my lawyer, when I agreed to give her a large amount. If that is Sarah's choice, then I have to fight. So, we leave it to the court," he said.
“So that’s the story. Please dont slander or paint lies about me in the media.”
The couple failed to finalise their divorce in court yesterday since a settlement could not be reached. Because of that, the divorce process that should have taken place on the same day could not be held.
The court has fixed May 25 for the mention of cases other than JKP that have been completed by both sides. – The Vibes, April 19, 2023
* this story originally appeared in our Malay-language sister portal Getaran