The Deputy Home Minister, Abu Seman Yusop, is still considering whether to ban or allow the book ‘Malaysian Maverick: Mahathir Mohamad in Turbulent Times' to be sold in Malaysia.

The ministry's deputy secretary-general (security) Ahmad Fuad Ab Aziz, said the ministry had extended its period to study the book by another 60 days.

"The matter is being looked into by Abu Seman. The first 60 day period ended on Jan 19 and the ministry decided to extend it because it needs more time to look at its content," said Ahmad Fuad.

"It NONE won't take another 60 days as the minister wants a decision as soon as possible. We are studying and analysing the book from all aspects."

The ministry said it was normal procedure to have the book, written by Barry Wain, to be scrutinised , before a decision is made whether the book could be sold in Malaysia.

It said this was to ensure the book would not affect the prevailing peace and stability in the country.

In the book, Wain, a former Asian Wall Street Journal managing editor, claimed Dr Mahathir had squandered up to RM100 billion in his 22 years of rule.

Mahathir threatened to sue

The former premier subsequently denied the allegation and had threatened to sue Wain, along with Malaysiakini and opposition stalwart, Lim Kit Siang for defamation.

Ahmad Fuad said the book is a best seller in Singapore where it has entered its third edition.

Asked to comment over the High Court's decision to lift the ban on the book ‘Muslim Women and the Challenges of Islamic Extremism', Ahmad Fuad said the ministry had yet to decide whether it would appeal the decision. "The ministry has 14 days to file an appeal and it would also depend on the attorney-general."

On Tuesday, justice Mohamad Ariff Md Yusof ruled to lift the ban on the book after almost one and a half years after the court ruled the Home Minister's move was erroneous.