Tian Chua fined RM3,000 for using foul language on a policeman

PETALING JAYA: Batu MP Tian Chua was fined RM3,000 by the Sessions Court for using foul language on a policeman three years ago.
Sessions Judge Yasmin Abdul Razak who found Tian Chua guilty of the charge under Section 509 of the Penal Code, said she took into account the position of the accused as a federal lawmaker and the seriousness of the offence.
Earlier, counsel Latheefa Koya mitigated for a lesser sentence, stating that Tian Chua is an elected representative who is serving as a Member of Parliament in his second term, and had been cooperative throughout the trial process.
She also urged the court not to impose a jail sentence but to mete out a reasonable fine instead as the offense was made in regards to a statement made and not in terms of "action".
Deputy Public Prosecutor Suhaimi Ibrahim urged the court to mete out a heavier penalty that would serve as a deterrent to would-be-offenders in the future.
"As it is a case of public interest involving an elected representative, the accused's actions could influence his followers in the future given his leadership status," he said.
The sentence will not affect Tian Chua's position as MP as the punishment does not merit an automatic disqualification.
Tian Chua, whose real name is Chua Tian Chang, had earlier claimed trial before the Sessions Court to the charge of outraging the modesty of police assistant superintendent Glenn A. Sinappah by uttering foul words.
The alleged offence occurred at the main entrance of the Armada Hotel in Section 52, here, at 7.45pm on April 14, 2014.
The offence under Section 509 of the Penal Code is punishable by a five-year prison sentence, fine, or both.
A total of five prosecution witnesses testified while the defence had called two witnesses including Tian Chua.
While Tian Chua paid his fine, Latheefa said that they will be appealing against the amount of the fine.
An MP can be disqualified should the individual be sentenced to one year's jail and above or fined RM2,000 and above if found guilty for any offence.