Man pleads not guilty to arson charge in Kampung Tabuan Cemerlang longhouse fire

Kuching Court Complex (File Photo)

By Dorcas Ting

KUCHING, Aug 30: A man pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court today after being charged with setting fire to a rented longhouse in Kampung Tabuan Cemerlang on Tuesday.

The accused, 36-year-old Muhammad Ali Ahmad, entered his plea before Judge Afidah Abdul Rahman.

He is charged under Section 436 of the Penal Code, which carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a fine if convicted.

The charge alleges that Muhammad Ali intentionally set fire to the longhouse located in Kampung Tabuan Cemerlang, Jalan Setia Raja, at around 9.15am on Aug 27, 2024.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Iezzah Iburdanisha Ibrahim handled the prosecution, while the accused did not have legal representation.

The court scheduled Oct 10 for the case management.

During the proceedings, the prosecution did not offer bail, arguing that the seriousness of the offense and public interest justified the decision. The court ordered Muhammad Ali to remain in custody.

On the day of the incident, a longhouse made of non-permanent materials was completely destroyed by fire.

Firefighters from the Padungan and Tabuan Jaya Fire and Rescue Stations extinguished the fire by 11.32am.

Thankfully, no injuries or casualties were reported, and all 37 residents of the longhouse safely evacuated. — DayakDaily