Cover image via Bernama via Malay Mail
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The couple caught having sex at a cemetery in Penang has been sentenced to one year in jail
According to the New Straits Times, the couple pleaded guilty to committing gross indecency at the Batu Gantong Chinese cemetery in Penang last Sunday, 22 March.
The duo — M Jegathesan, 58, and Halila Abu Bakar, 37 — were charged under Section 377D of the Penal Code, which carries a jail term of up to two years upon conviction.
Deputy public prosecutor Lau Shavin requested that Magistrate Nadratun Naim Saidi impose a deterrent sentence to warn the public against such acts, noting that the male accused is married.
Meanwhile, the lawyer representing both accused, R Purantharan, told the court that Jegathesan is the sole breadwinner and works as a security guard earning RM1,800 a month.
"He is married with two children, and his wife is suffering from a stroke," the lawyer said.
As for Halila, Purantharan said she is single, unemployed, and has been living with her family for support
"Both have pleaded guilty, saving the court time and costs of a trial. I therefore appeal for minimal custodial sentences for both my clients," he added.
The incident occurred at the cemetery in Air Itam on Sunday.
A 38-second viral video shows Jegathesan standing naked with his back to the camera, and a partially undressed Halila sitting on a tombstone.
In the clip, a woman confronts the pair, shouting, "I found you two here again! They have been naked in the cemetery several times already.
"You are disrespecting the deceased by carrying out such an indecent act here. I am calling the police."
Despite their apology, a police report was lodged, leading to the couple's arrest on Monday, 23 March.
