FORMER freelance preacher Faridul Firdaus Zaulkapli, 40, better known as Ustaz Farid Abu Auliya, today pleaded not guilty to two charges of possessing mobile phones allegedly containing nude images and pornographic videos.
Faridul Firdaus entered the plea after the charges were read before Magistrate Cynthia Noor Haizean Sulaiman.
He was charged with possessing two mobile phones containing the alleged material at the Shah Alam District Police Headquarters at 6.15pm on July 1, 2025.
The charges were brought under Section 292 of the Penal Code, which carries a maximum three-year jail term, a fine, or both, upon conviction.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Nur Alya Zaphfirah Al Zaphni proposed total bail of RM8,000 with one surety.
However, lawyer A Naveenthiran, representing Faridul Firdaus, sought a lower amount, citing his client’s financial circumstances and family commitments.
“He needs to support two wives and 11 children aged between two months and 15 years, as well as elderly parents.
“He has cooperated with the authorities since investigations began last year, and there is no risk of him absconding or interfering with witnesses,” he said.
The court was also told that investigations had been ongoing for about a year and a half, during which the accused had cooperated with police.
The defence further submitted that Faridul Firdaus had no previous criminal record and posed no flight risk.
The court subsequently granted him bail of RM5,000 with one surety.
The case has been fixed for mention on Oct 27. - September 11, 2026