KOTA KINABALU, Nov 15 — Phillip Among, a Sabah politician accused of molesting a contestant in the Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan pageant, has denied all allegations, asserting that his actions were professional and intended to assist the contestant with her poses during a photoshoot.
Testifying at the Kota Kinabalu magistrates’ court, the 53-year-old suspended member of Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) explained that, as the pageant's technical director and photographer, it was standard practice for him to guide models during photo sessions. “I did not touch her back as claimed,” he said, maintaining that the allegations against him were false.
Defense Testimony Highlights
Among, who is the first defense witness in the trial, described the atmosphere during the photoshoot as positive and amicable. He stated that the contestant appeared cheerful and showed no signs of discomfort throughout the session.
“She even expressed her gratitude for the assistance I provided,” Among told the court, adding that his support extended beyond the photoshoot. He claimed to have sponsored her accommodation for a separate event and arranged transportation for her to participate in the pageant in Kota Kinabalu.
“She also sought my help in securing funds, accommodation, and other necessities,” he said, portraying their interaction as cordial and professional.
Allegations and Charges
The accusations against Among date back to May 19, 2021, involving four separate incidents in Kota Kinabalu. The charges allege that he molested the contestant at various locations, including a studio, a moving car, a staircase near another studio, and an office.
These charges fall under Section 354 of the Penal Code, which pertains to the use of criminal force with the intent to outrage someone’s modesty. If convicted, the punishment could include imprisonment of up to 10 years, a fine, whipping, or a combination of these penalties.
Trial to Resume in January
Among’s trial commenced today and is set to continue on January 13, 2025, before magistrate Marilyn Kelvin. During the proceedings, his counsel, Abdul Fikry Jaafar Abdullah, led the examination-in-chief, aiming to dismantle the claims made by the alleged victim.
Professional or Inappropriate?
Among’s defense hinges on his claim that his actions were misconstrued. He emphasized that his role as a photographer and technical director often required hands-on guidance to achieve the desired poses during promotional shoots.
However, the accusations outline a series of events that suggest otherwise, with the alleged incidents taking place in varying settings over the course of one day.
A Case Drawing Public Interest
The trial has garnered significant attention, not just because of the nature of the allegations but also due to Among’s political profile and involvement in the prestigious Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan pageant. The case underscores the importance of clarity in professional interactions and the serious implications of accusations of misconduct.
As the trial progresses, the court will delve deeper into the testimonies and evidence presented by both sides to determine whether Among’s actions were professional assistance or crossed the line into criminal misconduct.
Information Source: FMT
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