Unregistered machineries: Firm pleads not guilty

Kota Kinabalu: A company was charged with seven counts of using logging machineries which were not registered with the Forest Conservator Chief (FCC).

Maxland Sdn Bhd, through its representative, pleaded not guilty to all the charges against the company on Friday.

The charges were read to the representative before Sessions Court Judge Ummu Khaltom Abd Samad.

On the first to seventh counts, the company as logging contractor, is accused of using seven logging machineries which were not registered with the FCC for logging purpose.

The offence allegedly took place at noon on Aug 24, 2018 at stumping area FMU 5, Aneka Desiran in Trusmadi Forest Reserve, Ranau.

The offence, under Section 20B(1) of the Forest Rules 1969 and punishable under Section 20B(9)(1) of the same Rules, provides for a jail term of up to 12 months and fine on conviction.

The court set April 6 for case management.

The prosecution will call about 10 witnesses during hearing.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Adibah Saiful Bahri appeared for the prosecution while counsel Ronny Cham defended the company.