Sepang Umno division chief charged with hurting religious feelings

In a legal proceedings at the Magistrates' Court in Kuala Lumpur, Sepang Umno division chief Datuk Noorazli Said was charged with intentionally causing offense to a Christian's religious beliefs. According to Utusan Malaysia, the 48-year-old Umno leader was accused of making remarks at the Umno General Assembly last month that were directed towards Christian clergy, specifically Catholic priests and nuns.

Noorazli pleaded not guilty to the charges, which are brought under Section 298 of the Penal Code, with a potential maximum sentence of one year in jail and a fine. The Deputy Public Prosecutor proposed a RM15,000 bail with one Malaysian surety, while the defense lawyer requested a bail amount ranging from RM4,000 to RM5,000. The court ultimately granted bail of RM6,000 with one surety and set November 18 for further proceedings and submission of documents.

The police reported receiving 86 complaints and recorded statements from 93 witnesses, while Noorazli had previously indicated his willingness to apologize if his remarks caused any misunderstanding or offense.