KUALA LUMPUR – Three trainers from the Reserve Officer Training Unit (PALAPES) pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court today to a charge of causing the death of a cadet, Syamsul Haris Shamsudin, last year.
The accused — Mejar Mohd Azmi Abu Bakar, 40; Kapten Muhammad Bahauddin Ab Rasid, 30; and Pegawai Waran Mohd Norbuangani Mislan, 41 — entered their pleas before Judge Hayda Faridzal Abu Hasan.
According to the charge sheet, the trio are alleged to have acted together in a manner that led to the death of the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) trainee at the Ulu Tiram Utara shooting range between 2pm and 3pm on July 28, 2025.
The charge under Section 304(a) of the Penal Code (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) carries a maximum sentence of 30 years’ imprisonment and a fine upon conviction.
Bail arguments
Johor Prosecution Director Abdul Ghafar Ab Latif initially informed the court that the charge is non-bailable but proposed a sum of RM50,000 with one surety for each accused should the court exercise its discretion.
The accused, who were unrepresented, appealed for leniency. Mohd Azmi, speaking for the group, cited their long service records.
“We have served for more than 20 years. We have never been brought to court. As public servants, we work sincerely, day and night taking care of our cadets. We have wives and children. We will ensure that we attend court — that is our promise,” he said.
Court Ruling Judge Hayda Faridzal reminded the accused of the gravity of the charge but eventually fixed bail at RM20,000 each with one surety. They were also ordered to surrender their international passports to the court.
The court set April 13 for case mention to allow for the appointment of legal counsel and the submission of documents. – February 27, 2026