Naim Daniel, who shot to fame with his 2022 hit single Sumpah (Swear) – which has reached 42 million views on YouTube – is accused of sexually assaulting the 17-year-old victim on May 19 at a hotel in Petaling Jaya district, just outside the capital city of Kuala Lumpur.
The 28-year-old’s charge comes after weeks of speculation over his involvement in the alleged crime, following revelations by the police on June 4 that a celebrity had been arrested in connection with the case.
Malaysian law recognises individuals aged 18 as adults, while 16 is the age of consent.
Naim, whose full name is Muhammad Naim Daniel Baharin, pleaded not guilty. He was released on 12,000 ringgit (US$2,800) bail and instructed to hand over his passport to the court.
“I am committed to giving my full cooperation to clear my name,” Naim told reporters outside the court after the hearing.
