A 33-year-old insurance agent appeared in the Sessions Court here today to face charges of physically abusing her 11-year-old son last month.
Ng Cha Yee, a single mother, pleaded not guilty before Judge Mohd Zamir Suhaimee.
According to the charge sheet, Ng allegedly caused physical injuries to her son while he was under her care. The incident is said to have occurred at the staircase area of a building block in Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, Masai, around 5pm on February 24.
Charges and Potential Penalties
Ng was charged under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, which carries a maximum 20-year jail term, a fine of up to RM50,000, or both upon conviction. The court may also impose additional punishments, including a good behaviour bond and 36 to 240 hours of community service within six months.
Deputy public prosecutor R. Nevina proposed RM20,000 bail with conditions for Ng to surrender her passport, avoid contacting the victim or witnesses, and report monthly to the police station.
Defence Appeals For Lower Bail
Defence lawyer Mohd Azlan Shah Mohd Allias requested a lower bail, citing Ng’s monthly income of RM3,900 and her existing commitments, which range from RM2,500 to RM3,000 for rent, car instalments, and living expenses.
He emphasised that Ng poses no flight risk and had fully cooperated with authorities throughout the investigation.
Another defence lawyer, Jason Nazrin Tan, told the court that Ng only became aware of a police report against her when she visited the station on March 6 to report her son missing.
He explained that the boy had failed to return home and had been absent from school, prompting the headmaster to contact her. Ng had attempted to reach her former husband but was unsuccessful before lodging the report, only to discover a report had already been filed against her. She did not attempt to flee and remained at the station until her arrest.
Bail Granted, Case Mention Set
The court later granted RM9,000 bail with the three conditions proposed by the prosecution.
The case is scheduled for mention and submission of documents on April 13.
