RM6k fine for filming stepdaughter in shower outrageous, says MCA leader

Summary

• A man convicted for filming his teenage stepdaughter showering was fined RM6,000 yesterday.

• Sabah Wanita MCA chief Pamela Yong says the fine is an “absolute travesty of justice”.

• She urges the authorities to review the matter to ensure a stricter punishment is imposed to send a clear message.

Sabah Wanita MCA chairperson Pamela Yong has slammed the RM6,000 fine imposed on a stepfather convicted of taking nude pornographic photographs and videos of his 15-year-old stepdaughter.

“It is an absolute travesty of justice and if not, a joke,” she said, expressing outrage over the Muar Sessions Court’s decision.

Yong said the sentence fails to reflect the severity of the crime, offering no real deterrent, no rehabilitation, and no meaningful protection for the victim.

“How does this judgment restrain him from repeating his actions, especially when he still has access to the child?

“Worse, what is stopping him from exploiting her further? Especially as a means to recover the money that he has lost from the fines, as retribution against her, who had reported him to the authorities?

“The law exists to protect the vulnerable, especially minors, from those who prey on them. When the punishment is nothing more than a slap on the wrist, it emboldens perpetrators and fails victims,” she added.

Yesterday, the 56-year-old cleaner pleaded guilty after he was charged with possessing child pornography, specifically 18 video recordings and pictures of his stepdaughter taking a shower.

He was charged under Section 10 of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act, which provides for up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of RM10,000, or both, upon conviction.

Yong said a crime of this nature demands a sentence that not only ensures the offender is held accountable but also serves as a strong warning to others.

Protect the victim

Additionally, she said the sentence should also serve to educate society about the gravity of such offences and the consequences of violating the trust and safety of vulnerable individuals.

“Justice must be more than just a token gesture - it must protect, punish, and prevent,” she added.

Yong urged the relevant authorities to review the case and consider stricter penalties, including imprisonment and mandatory registration on the sex offender registry.

She also called for comprehensive measures to protect the victim and ensure her safety, including restricting the offender’s access to her and providing her with the necessary support and counselling to recover from this traumatic experience.

“This case highlights the urgent need for stricter sentencing guidelines and stronger enforcement of laws protecting minors from sexual exploitation.

“We must send a clear message that such heinous acts will not be tolerated and that the safety and dignity of our children are non-negotiable,” she added.

Only 44pct of child abuse cases convicted from 2022-2024

Apex court reinstates death penalty for man who murdered wife, infant

Cops are still looking for Indira's daughter, says deputy home minister

COMMENT | Why Malaysia's women are still waiting for equality