Phillip Among, 53, told the Kota Kinabalu magistrates’ court that he was simply helping the victim pose for a photoshoot, The Borneo Post reported.
The suspended Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) member said this was common practice for him during model shoots as a technical director of the pageant and photographer.
Phillip, the first defence witness, said he had never touched the contestant’s back as alleged, and claimed she had made a false accusation against him.
Under examination-in-chief by his counsel, Abdul Fikry Jaafar Abdullah, he said the contestant was “very cheerful” about taking part in the photoshoot, as part of a promotional video for the pageant.
“During the photoshoot sessions, the contestant did not show any sign of discomfort.
“She also expressed her appreciation and gratitude to me for the assistance and sponsorship I provided,” he was quoted as saying.
The accused also said he previously sponsored her accommodation for a separate event and helped arrange for her transport to Kota Kinabalu for the pageant.
“She also requested funds and assistance with accommodation and the purchase of necessities.”
Phillip’s trial began today and will resume before magistrate Marilyn Kelvin on Jan 13, 2025.
He is standing trial on four charges of molesting the pageant contestant on four occasions in Kota Kinabalu on May 19, 2021.
He is accused of committing the acts at a studio, inside a moving car after dinner, at the staircase beside another studio and inside an office.
The charges are framed under Section 354 of the Penal Code for criminal force to outrage a person’s modesty, punishable by up to 10 years’ jail, a fine, whipping or any of the two punishments, upon conviction. - FMT
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