A local woman pleaded guilty to a charge of illegally occupying land belonging to the Pahang state government and using it to plant durians two years ago.
The accused, Yong Lai Kien, entered the guilty plea before Judge Puan Noor Zaihan Mohamad Ali at the Raub Sessions Court today, reported Sinar Harian.
What raid found
On Aug 9, 2024, the Pahang State Enforcement Unit (UPNP) carried out a raid at the piece of land located in Sungai Pertang, Mukim Gali, where they found that Yong had occupied state government land without permission.
They also discovered an orchard house and an area full of durian trees.
Yong was charged under Section 425(1)(a) of the National Land Code, which carries a penalty of a fine of up to RM500,000, imprisonment of up to five years, or both upon conviction.
Heavy sentence
UPNP prosecuting officers Muhammad Muqris Alif Zairiasdi and Nurul Ain Wozzari prosecuted the case, while Yong was represented by Mohd Harris Mohan.
During proceedings, the prosecution urged the court to impose a heavy and appropriate sentence, saying Yong’s actions not only caused significant damage to the land structure, but also caused the state government to lose revenue through unpaid land taxes and permit fees.
It also argued that severe penalties provided under the law reflect the state government’s seriousness in tackling land encroachment.
Following Yong’s guilty plea, the court ordered her to pay RM80,000 in fines.
If she fails to pay, she will have to serve eight months in jail.
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