Woman pleads guilty to selling baby for RM17,300 in Kedah

A 24-year-old woman, S. Kelsey, has pleaded guilty in a Kedah court to transferring control of a baby boy for RM17,300 at a private hospital in Sungai Petani last month. The charge was brought under Section 48(1) of the Child Act 2001, which could result in a maximum fine of RM50,000 and up to 20 years imprisonment if convicted.

Kelsey appeared before Sessions Court judge Nabisha Ibrahim after the charge was read. Her lawyer, RSN Rayer, requested a lower bail amount citing her client's lack of income and the need to support her family, as well as her weakened condition post-childbirth on Aug 18. Judge Nabisha subsequently released Kelsey on RM10,000 bail with one surety, with additional conditions including surrendering her passport and prohibition from contacting prosecution witnesses.

In addition, Kelsey pleaded guilty in the Magistrate’s Court in Sungai Petani to possessing another woman’s identity card, an offence under Regulation 25(1)(e) of the National Registration Regulations 1990, which could lead to a maximum of two years imprisonment and a fine of up to RM3,000. She was released on RM1,500 bail with one surety.

The police arrested six locals, including a recently delivered woman, last week over suspected involvement in the trafficking of a baby boy in Kuala Muda. The investigation is still ongoing.