Inspector, policewoman plead guilty to khalwat

Inspector Muhammad Shukri Hamzah, 40, and policewoman Intan Suriani Abdul Kadir, 33, have pleaded guilty to a charge of khalwat (close proximity) in a Melaka Syariah High Court. The two were found locked in a rented room on May 14, 2026, at 11.57 pm, according to the charge. The court heard that Muhammad Shukri was charged under Section 53(1) of the Syariah Offences (Melaka), while Intan Suriani faced charges under Section 53(2) of the same law.

If convicted, Muhammad Shukri could face a fine of up to RM3,000 or imprisonment for up to 24 months, while Intan Suriani was facing a fine of up to RM2,000 or imprisonment for up to 24 months. The prosecution requested the court to impose a sentence commensurate with the positions of the accused as members of the enforcement agency, emphasizing their high level of integrity as police officers.

The court sentenced Muhammad Shukri to a RM3,000 fine or six months in prison if he fails to pay, while Intan Suriani received a RM2,000 fine or four months in prison if she fails to pay. The judge expressed disappointment over the involvement of enforcement officers in syariah offences, stressing that police officers and syariah enforcement officers have a responsibility to uphold justice and maintain public trust.