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PEKAN – A 55-year-old nurse pleaded not guilty in the Magistrates' Court here on Tuesday to a charge of forging 10 medical certificates between March and April last year.
Zaleha Ismail was accused of forging 10 medical certificates purportedly issued by a medical officer at the Kuala Pahang Community Clinic between March 1 and April 27, 2025.
The charge was framed under Section 465 of the Penal Code, which provides for a maximum two-year jail term, a fine, or both, upon conviction.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Siti Sarah Aqilah Lokman sought bail of RM15,000 with one surety, citing the seriousness of the offence, the accused's status as a civil servant and the public interest.
However, lawyer Ahmad Deniel Roslan of the National Legal Aid Foundation (YBGK) urged the court to set a lower bail amount, citing his client's financial circumstances and family responsibilities.
He said Zaleha earned about RM3,500 a month and was the family's sole breadwinner, as her husband was unable to work after suffering a stroke. She also supported two school-going children.
Magistrate Melody Woon Sze Mun allowed bail of RM10,000 with one surety and ordered Zaleha to report to the Pekan District Police Headquarters once a month until the case is concluded.
The court fixed Nov 23 for the next mention, for the appointment of counsel and submission of documents. –BERNAMA
