FORMER Sedili assemblyman Rasman Ithnain claimed trial in the Muar magistrates’ court today to a charge of outraging the modesty of a woman in January.

Rasman, 54, made the plea after the charge was read to him by an interpreter before magistrate Amalina Basirah Md Top.

According to the charge sheet, Rasman allegedly used criminal force to outrage the modesty of the 27-year-old woman in a Toyota Vellfire in Muar, about 5pm on Januar 13.

Rasman, who is Kota Tinggi Bersatu division chief, was charged under section 354 of the penal code, which carries a maximum 10-year jail term or with fine or whipping, or any of the two punishments.

Johor prosecution director Tengku Amir Zaki Tengku Abdul Rahman and deputy public prosecutor Hayatul Wirdah Mohd Yunos proposed a bail of RM5,000 for the accused.

However, Rasman, represented by lawyers Muhammad Mohd Nasir and Muhammad Izzad Syafiq Ismail, asked for a lower bail on grounds he had cooperated with police throughout the investigation process.

Amalina set bail at RM4,000 in one surety and fixed July 3 for mention and submission of documents.

The court also set August 16 to 18 for hearing. – Bernama, June 12, 2022.