Elderly Man Faces Re-charge over Ramadan Slap Incident
KUALA LUMPUR, March 19 – An elderly man, previously discharged without an acquittal on charges of intentionally causing harm, is set to be recharged today.
The Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) confirmed that a technical error had affected the initial charge against 65-year-old Abdul Razak Ismail.
“The technical discrepancy in the charge has now been rectified, and the individual will be recharged at the Johor Bahru Magistrate’s Court this afternoon on March 19, 2025,” the AGC stated.
They further emphasized their commitment to upholding justice: “We remain firmly dedicated to ensuring that all parties receive fair justice as prescribed by law,” the statement added.
The incident in question occurred on March 16, 2025, when Abdul Razak allegedly slapped a young non-Muslim man at a convenience store in Johor Bahru, reportedly over the latter’s public meal.
A medical report confirmed that the victim sustained bruising on his right cheek. The charge, filed under Section 323 of the Penal Code, carries a potential penalty of up to one year in prison, a fine of RM2,000, or both.
Initially, Abdul Razak entered a guilty plea to the charge of voluntarily causing hurt. However, he later disputed elements of the prosecution’s case, telling the court, “I did slap him, but not with enough force to leave a bruise.” Due to the conditional nature of his plea, Magistrate A. Shaarmini ordered him to secure legal representation.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Nur Fatihah Mohd Nizam informed the court that the AGC had directed a review of the case file, which ultimately led to the decision to discharge him without a formal acquittal earlier.
With the technical issues now resolved, authorities will proceed with recharging Abdul Razak in an effort to ensure that justice is thoroughly served.
