Lim Associations VP Faces Trial for Unauthorized Datuk Seri Title
The vice-president of the Federation of Malaysia Lim Associations, Lim Teng Huat, has pleaded not guilty to charges of using an unrecognised Datuk Seri honorary title. The trial took place at the Sessions Court in Melaka on Tuesday, August 15. The accused is alleged to have used the title alongside a Darjah Kurnia Paduka Seri Diraja Perak (DSDP) title, which has not been officially recognized. The offence was reportedly committed at the Melaka Registrar of Societies office on October 14, 2019.
Under Section 7(3) of the Perak Emblems, Titles and Awards (Prevention of Improper Use) Enactment, the accused has been charged, and if found guilty, could face a maximum fine of RM500,000 or imprisonment for up to five years, or both. The charge against Lim Teng Huat was read before Judge Mohd Sabri Ismail in Mandarin.
Lim Teng Huat, who is also the chairman of the Lim Clan Association of Melaka, was represented by counsel Khaw Thian Keat during the trial. Meanwhile, Deputy Public Prosecutor Puteri Nor Nadia Mohamed Iqbal stood as the prosecutor.
The court granted bail of RM30,000 with one surety and ordered the international passport of the accused to be handed over.
This case has attracted significant attention, as the unauthorized use of honorary titles is a serious offence in Malaysia. The title Datuk Seri is a distinguished honorary title bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation or society. It is an offense to misuse such titles, as it undermines the credibility and integrity associated with them.
While Lim Teng Huat has pleaded not guilty to the charges, the trial will delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding the alleged unauthorized use of the title. The case will be closely watched to see how the court decides on this matter, as it could set a precedent for similar cases in the future.
The implications of this trial extend beyond the individual defendant, as it raises questions about the authenticity and proper use of honorary titles in Malaysia. The government has been vigilant in preventing the improper use and misrepresentation of such titles, as they hold cultural and historical significance in the country.
It is crucial to maintain the integrity of honorary titles and ensure that they are only bestowed upon individuals who truly deserve recognition for their contributions. Strict enforcement of regulations regarding the use of honorary titles is necessary to prevent any misuse and maintain the prestige associated with these honors.
The trial of Lim Teng Huat serves as a reminder that one must exercise caution and adhere to the proper guidelines outlined by the government before using any honorary titles. It also highlights the importance of preserving the respect and credibility of these titles within Malaysian society.
As the trial progresses, it is expected that further insights will emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding the alleged unauthorized use of the Datuk Seri title. The court will carefully consider the evidence presented and make a decision based on the facts of the case.
This trial marks an opportunity for a comprehensive examination of the regulations and procedures surrounding honorary titles in Malaysia. It is an important milestone in ensuring that such titles are awarded and used with transparency and in accordance with the law. The outcome of this trial is anticipated to significantly impact the future governance and usage of honorary titles in the country.
As the trial reaches its conclusion, the court’s decision will have far-reaching implications, not just for Lim Teng Huat but for the entire system of honorary titles in Malaysia. The verdict will shed light on the appropriate use of these titles, serving as a guide for individuals seeking recognition and honoring those who have genuinely made remarkable contributions to society.
