A lawyer involved in Tronoh assemblyperson Paul Yong's ongoing trial for alleged rape today conceded there are no legal grounds against the latter resuming his duties as a Perak state executive councillor.
"Yong (above) can still continue his duties because he has not been convicted.
"Legally, there is nothing wrong with that," lawyer Gabriel Susayan, who is part of a legal team holding a watching brief for the victim's mother, told Malaysiakini when contacted.
Earlier today, Yong announced he has re-assumed duties as a member of the Perak state administration, following consultations with Menteri Besar Ahmad Faizal Azumu who supported his return to work.
Meanwhile, the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur said its priorities, together with Malaysian authorities, remain on the protection of the 23-year-old victim and ensuring her access to justice.
The embassy's representative Shabda Tian told Malaysiakini the victim's mental and physical conditions have improved since she was first rescued and given refuge at a safe house.
"Alhamdulillah, she is in better condition, mentally and physically.
"She is quite unhappy that the court postponed her hearing. But she respects the law process and the decision by the judge," Shabda told Malaysiakini.
The alleged victim, who is protected under the Witness Protection Act, had reportedly testified in a closed court on Monday.
As the hearing is ongoing, Shabda added the embassy will continue to provide safe shelter, access to watching brief lawyers, counselling sessions and other related needs to the victim.
On Wednesday, Yong’s counsel Rajpal Singh reportedly said the Ipoh Sessions Court judge Norashima Khalid had allowed the trial, initially set to go on yesterday and today, to be postponed to another date to be determined later.
He also said the defence is waiting for the judge to set another date to hear its notice to transfer the case, under Section 417 of the Criminal Code Procedure, from the Sessions Court to the High Court.
On Aug 23, Yong pleaded not guilty at the Session’s Court to raping a 23-year-old domestic helper at his residence in Meru and the offence was charged under Section 376 of the Penal Code. - Mkini
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