TAWAU: An e-hailing driver was charged with abusing his biological child, aged one year and 11 months, resulting in bruises on the face and body, at the Sessions Court here on Wednesday.
Mohd Syazmansyah Anak Mohd Lani, 25, pleaded not guilty to the charge before Session Court Judge Ahmad Faizadh Yahaya.
He allegedly committed the offence at Jalan Persisiran, between 5pm and 6.15 pm, on Oct 9, 2024.
The charge, under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, carries a penalty of up to a RM50,000 fine, 20 years’ jail, or both, on conviction.
During the hearing, the accused, who was unrepresented, appealed for a reduction of the RM7,000 bail set by Deputy Public Prosecutor Shearil Aizad Murnizam, saying he needs to care for his mother who is undergoing dialysis treatment for kidney disease.
He also said his income as a driver is only RM400 per month, and he also has to support his mother, child and unemployed wife.
The court set Feb 12, 2025 for mention of the case and bail of RM5,000 with two local sureties.
The accused is required to report to the police station once a month and is prohibited from interfering with prosecution witnesses.
According to the facts of the case, the incident occurred while the accused was taking his wife, aged 26 (the complainant), and their child for a drive along Jalan Persisiran.
The child was crying incessantly.
Feeling stressed, the accused reportedly struck, bit and pinched the child, causing injuries.
The incident took place inside a Toyota Vios.
