A Penang-based politician suspected of sexually harassing a woman has denied allegations against him.
Muhammad Faiz Fadzil, who is also the MP representing Permatang Pasir, issued a statement today confirming that he was questioned by the police on March 18, two days after a police report was filed against him. Police said that he was being investigated for outrage of modesty over a March 8 dinner date at a mall in Petaling Jaya.
“I can confirm that I was called by the police on March 18 to help with an investigation,” his statement said. “I have given my statement to the police and I deny the charges against me.”
“I cannot provide details of my defence as this is an ongoing investigation,” he continued, adding: “I am also discussing with my legal team about the appropriate legal action that I can take in order to clear my name.”
The 44-year-old member of the Amanah political party was reported to have gone out on a dinner date with an unnamed 31-year-old woman at the Bandar Sunway shopping mall. Reports said that the woman had accused him of trying to hold her hands and pulling her by the shoulders after she pushed him away. Faiz also allegedly told the woman to remain silent over the incident, reports added.
Police were investigating the case under Section 354 of the Penal Code, which covers molest. It carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment, a fine, and caning.
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