The founder of Rumah Bonda, Siti Bainun Ahd Razali was found guilty on two charges under Section 31(1) of the Child Act for neglecting as well as physically and emotionally abusing the teenager with down syndrome, known as 13 year old Bella.
Siti Bainun will serve 12 years in prison as well as 200 hours of community service. She is also required to sign a 5-year good behaviour bond.
Judge Izralizam Sanusi made the decision after finding that the defense failed to raise reasonable doubt at the end of the case.
1. The KL Sessions Court has sentenced Rumah Bonda founder Siti Bainun to 12 years in prison.
She was sentenced to 10 years in jail for neglecting a Down syndrome teenager, and 12 years for abusing the girl.
She will serve the sentences concurrently from today.
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— BFM News (@NewsBFM) May 3, 2023
In the trial’s prosecution phase, which began on March 30, 2022, a total of 22 prosecution witnesses gave testimony, including Yasmin Nahar Mahmood, a former resident of Rumah Bonda; Dr. Wan Asyikin Wan Azlan, a psychiatrist; Zurianty Sudin, an assistant manager of a private company and Dr. Salmi Mohamed Shukur, a plastic surgeon.
Just two years ago news of Bella’s horrific abuse made headlines when Siti Bainun, founder of a welfare home named Rumah Bonda, was outed for abusing Bella at a condo in Wangsa Maju.
This ruling sends a clear message that child abuse will not be tolerated in Malaysia, and that perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions.
We must continue to speak up and advocate for the protection of children and their rights #JusticeForBella
Stay tuned for more updates.
Also Read: Bella’s Abuse Case: Trial Continues Today, Rina Harun Reminds M’sians To Respect Court Proceeding
