GEORGE TOWN - A museum counter staff member has pleaded not guilty at the Sessions Court in George Town to a charge of sexually abusing a six-year-old South Korean girl at a hotel in July.
The accused, Chong Khay Tee, 18, entered his plea before Judge Irwan Suainbon after the charge was read to him in Malay.
He was not represented by legal counsel during the proceedings.
According to the charge sheet, Chong, who works at the TeddyVille Museum inside the hotel, is accused of touching the private parts of the young victim at around 4pm on July 31.
The charge falls under Section 14(a) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, which provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and whipping upon conviction.
During the proceedings, Deputy Public Prosecutor Lee Jung Keong offered bail at RM10,000 with one surety, while also requesting several conditions to be imposed.
“I request additional conditions that the accused not be allowed to approach the victim or interfere with prosecution witnesses.
“In addition, the accused’s passport must be surrendered to the court, if available, until the case is concluded,” said Lee.
The accused, dressed in a purple jersey, appeared confused when asked to respond.
“I don’t know what to say. I just want a lower bail,” he pleaded.
The court granted bail of RM8,000 with one surety and accepted all additional conditions proposed by the prosecution.
The case has been set for mention on Oct 6, pending the submission of documents and the appointment of a defence lawyer.