The accused claims trial as court imposes bail and strict conditions pending January hearing.
A 23-year-old factory worker in Johor Bahru has pleaded not guilty to two charges of sexually assaulting a 4-year-old boy under Malaysia’s Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017. The court has set strict bail conditions as the case progresses towards the next hearing in January 2025.
The case involves Muaz Saifullah, a 23-year-old factory store helper, who allegedly committed sexual assault against a 4-year-old boy on October 30, 2024, at a residence in Taman Sri Stulang, Johor Bahru. Under Section 14(a) of Malaysia’s Sexual Offences Against Children Act, the accused faces up to 20 years imprisonment and caning if found guilty.
The Accused Denies Charges in Court
During the court session on December 16, 2024, Muaz Saifullah pleaded not guilty before Sessions Judge Siti Noraida Sulaiman. Represented by lawyer Mohammad Muzammil, Muaz was visibly distressed during the hearing.
Bail Set with Strict Conditions
The Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP) Nur Farah Wahida Shahudin requested a bail of RM20,000 (approximately SGD 5,993) with additional terms, including a monthly police report and a restraining order. The court granted a reduced bail of RM15,000 and imposed strict conditions, including:
– No contact with the victim or witnesses
– A restraining order within a 6km radius of the victim
– Monthly check-ins at the nearest police station
Muaz, the son of the child’s babysitter, was accused of the crime while the boy was under his mother’s care. The defence argued for a lower bail citing Muaz’s monthly income of RM1,500–2,000 (approximately SGD 450–600) and his plan to relocate to Kota Tinggi.
The accused was arrested on December 7, 2024, in Taman Tampoi Jaya Industrial Park following a police report. Johor Bahru South OCPD Assistant Commissioner Raub Selamat confirmed that investigations began promptly under Section 377C of the Penal Code for unnatural offences.
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The court scheduled the case’s next mention for January 28, 2025. The charge under Malaysia’s Sexual Offences Against Children Act underscores the nation’s commitment to protecting minors from abuse, with severe penalties awaiting those found guilty.
This case highlights the importance of safeguarding children and ensuring swift legal recourse in sexual abuse cases. For Singaporeans and international visitors, it underscores Malaysia’s legal commitment to child protection. The case is ongoing, with strict conditions placed on the accused until the trial progresses.
A 23-year-old factory worker in Johor Bahru has pleaded not guilty to sexually assaulting a 4-year-old boy. The court set bail at RM15,000 with strict terms, including a restraining order. The next hearing is scheduled for January 28, 2025.
Keywords: Johor Factory Worker, Sexual Assault Allegations, 4-Year-Old Boy
