A 50-year-old funeral worker in Penang was fined RM100 after pleading guilty to insulting police officers by shouting “b*bi” (pig) during a traffic stop on the Penang Bridge.
Confrontation during traffic stop
According to China Press, the incident occurred on Feb 9 at around 10pm near the Penang Bridge toll entrance.
A joint enforcement operation involving police, JPJ, DOE, and immigration officers stopped the man’s motorcycle, which was found to have expired road tax and insurance.
When the officers informed him that his motorcycle would be clamped, the man became aggressive and shouted vulgarities, including calling the officers “b*bi”.
He was immediately arrested, and a urine test showed he was positive for drugs.
The man, identified as Chiam Zhi Xiong (transliteration), appeared at Bukit Mertajam Magistrate’s Court at 8:30 am on Feb 13, 2025.
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He remained silent and kept his head down when facing reporters.
He was charged under Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955 for using vulgar language to provoke and cause disturbance, which carries a maximum fine of RM100.
Lawyer pleads for leniency
The man pleaded guilty, and his legal aid lawyer, V. Pushpa , requested the minimum penalty, stating that he regretted his actions and had no malicious intent.
However, Deputy Public Prosecutor argued for the maximum fine, stating that his disrespectful behavior toward law enforcement warranted a stern warning to the public.
Magistrate Nurul Rashidah Md Akit ordered Chiam to pay a RM100 fine or face seven days in jail.
Faced drug charges
In addition to the insult charge, Chiam faces two drug-related charges under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 for failing urine tests on Feb 10, 2025, and Aug 24, 2023.
Each offense carries a maximum fine of RM5,000 or up to two years in prison.
Chiam pleaded not guilty to the drug charges.
His lawyer explained that he works as a funeral service provider earning RM1,800 to RM2,000 monthly, supports his housewife spouse, and cares for his elderly mother.
The magistrate set bail at RM3,000 for each drug charge (RM6,000 total) with one surety per case. The court scheduled the next hearing for April 14, 2025.
