Teacher-Turned E-Hailing Driver Claims Trial Over Alleged Outrage of Modesty Case in Johor Baru
A 26-year-old man who reportedly balanced his career as a teacher with part-time work as an e-hailing driver has pleaded not guilty to a charge of outraging a passenger’s modesty in Johor Baru.
The accused, identified as Alvin Choo Chee Hong, was brought before the Magistrate’s Court where he formally denied the allegation. The charge stems from an incident said to have occurred earlier this month during a private-hire trip within the city.
According to court proceedings, the alleged offence took place inside the vehicle while ferrying a foreign female passenger from a jewellery outlet in Jalan Harimau Tarum, Taman Century, to a residential condominium in Tanjung Puteri.
Alleged Incident During Evening Ride
Prosecutors stated that the accused allegedly touched the woman on three separate parts of her body between approximately 5.30pm and 6pm on Feb 1. The charge was framed under Section 354 of Malaysia’s Penal Code, a provision that deals with assault or use of criminal force with intent to outrage modesty.
If convicted, the offence carries severe legal consequences, including imprisonment of up to 10 years, a possible fine, caning, or a combination of these penalties. Such cases often draw public attention due to growing concerns about passenger safety in the ride-hailing industry, particularly for women relying on private transport services.
The accused appeared in court wearing a blue T-shirt and face mask. He acknowledged understanding the charge read to him but chose to contest it, signalling that the matter will proceed through the judicial process.
Bail Set at RM2,000
Deputy public prosecutor Nurul Syafiqah Sha’ari sought bail of RM10,000. However, defence counsel Mark Jeyakumar urged the court to consider a lower amount. The lawyer argued that the allegation should not be viewed as a serious offence and added that his client had ceased working as an e-hailing driver.
The defence further maintained that there was no risk of interference with the complainant, claiming that the accused did not possess her personal details.
After hearing submissions from both sides, Magistrate A. Shaarmini granted bail at RM2,000 with one surety. The court fixed March 13 for the next mention of the case, when further updates are expected.
The incident has once again placed focus on passenger safety and legal accountability within the gig economy. As ride-hailing platforms continue to expand across Southeast Asia, cases involving alleged sexual misconduct remain closely watched by both regulators and the public.
The matter is now before the court, and the accused remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty under Malaysian law.
Image Source: Screenshot from Sin Chew