Housewife pleads not guilty to abuse, human trafficking PETALING JAYA (Aug 13, 2013): A housewife pleaded not guilty at the Sessions Court here earlier today to two charges -- one of abusing her 30-year old Indonesian maid last week and another to human trafficking. 40-year old Chai Eng Fong claimed trial to a charge of pouring hot water and assaulting her maid by hitting her at her Subang Bestari, Shah Alam home at about 7pm on Aug 8, causing injuries to her face, head, ears, breast, back and thighs. Chai could face a maximum seven-year jail term and a fine if found guilty of voluntarily causing hurt under Section 326 of the Penal Code. The mother of four was also charged under Section 13 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 which carries a maximum 20-year jail sentence, fine and whipping upon conviction. In bail submissions, Deputy Public Prosecutor Zhafran Rahim Hamzah said bail should be denied due to the public interest nature of the case, pointing out that a lot of media coverage had been given regarding the abuse. "Justice must not only be done but be seen to be done," said Zhafran, adding that if the court used its discretion to set bail, it should be set at RM200,000 for both charges. Zafran had also pointed out the matter was of international interest as it could affect Malaysia-Indonesia relations. However, this was countered by defence counsel TH Goh who said that his client was innocent until proven guilty, adding that any high bail or denial of bail would be akin to punishing Chai prematurely Judge Rozina Ayob set mention of the case for Sept 2 and set bail at RM50,000 for both charges, and set additional conditions to prohibit Chai from contacting the complainant or prosecution witnesses. Rozina also directed for Chai to surrender her passport and report in to a police station once a month.sun
Posted on: Fri, 16 Aug 2013 16:04:30 +0000
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