MUAR: A labourer pleaded not guilty at the Sessions Court today to setting a temple in Tangkak, Johor, on fire.
Muhammad Nizam, 32, was accused of committing mischief by fire that resulted in the destruction of a place of worship in Kebun Baru, Tangkak, at 3.30am on July 15.
The charge carries a penalty of up to two years in prison and a fine if found guilty.
According to the police report, Muhammad allegedly brought diesel from his home, located near the scene, and poured it on the temple before setting it on fire.
The temple, which is next to the roadside, caught fire, but passers-by contacted the Fire and Rescue Department.
A report was lodged at the Kebun Baru police station. Investigations led to the accused's arrest on the same day of the incident.
Deputy public prosecutor Mohamad Ariff Marzuki led the prosecution, while the accused was unrepresented.
The prosecution requested that no bail be offered, citing the severity of the offence.
The accused told judge Nariman Badruddin: "I don't mind if I am denied bail." The judge declined to offer bail.