Public warned against making statements, comments on Bella's abuse case

KUALA LUMPUR - Sessions Court judge Izralizam Sanusi today warned the public against issuing any statement or making comments on social media regarding the ongoing trial involving Rumah Bonda founder Siti Bainun Ahd Razali who is charged with neglecting and abusing a teenage girl with Down syndrome known as bella.

Izralizam, who heard the trial proceedings, said he agreed that Malaysians have the right to freedom of expression, but legal action could be taken against those who go overboard in their postings on social media.

"The court would like to warn and remind the public especially those in the public gallery not to make any slanderous comments that are sub judice or contempt of court.

"If such things happen, I believe that the prosecution can take appropriate action against the individuals involved because it clearly violates the law of contempt of court and sub judice,” he said.

He said the trial was still ongoing and the fifth prosecution witness, Yasmin Nahar Mahmood had not finished testifying.