SIBU: A lorry driver has been fined RM4,000 by the Magistrate’s Court here for intimidating singer Nor Ashimah Ramli, popularly known as Baby Shima.
Magistrate Oon Kork Chern meted out the fine on Mel Maxpherson Munded, 32, of Kampung Bratan, Jalan Borneo Heights, after he pleaded guilty to committing criminal intimidation.
He was charged with sending a death threat to the singer with intent to cause alarm to her at the lobby of Kingwood Hotel here at about 11pm on Dec 30 last year, Bernama reported.
The charge, framed under Section 506 of the Penal Code, provides jail of up to seven years or a fine, or both, upon conviction.
Prior to the sentencing, the magistrate asked the accused if he was aware that he had committed criminal intimidation, to which the accused said he was not, saying he was under the influence of alcohol.
In mitigation, Mel Maxpherson said he was married with a child and also supporting his mother.
Prosecuting officer Asst Supt Siti Mariyah Dahari requested the court impose a deterrent sentence as a lesson to the accused and others.
According to the facts of the case, Baby Shima was informed by her manager that there was a threatening comment from a Facebook user.
Following that, accompanied by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, Baby Shima lodged a report at the Sibu police station, which led to Mel Maxpherson’s arrest.
Baby Shima was among the guest artistes who performed at the 2025 New Year’s Eve celebration organised by the ministry at the Azman Hashim Community Sports Complex in Sibu Jaya.
