Johor man, 23, charged with statutory rape after allegedly promising to marry girl, 15

A 23-year-old man in Johor, Malaysia was charged on Nov. 11 after he allegedly raped a 15-year-old girl and later disappeared.

According to Harian Metro, Haffiq Fitrie Hamdan had also allegedly promised to marry the girl before he raped her.

The incident occurred at a house in the Muar district on Oct. 20.

He pleaded not guilty when the charge was read at the Muar Sessions Court.

Reportedly promised to marry girl, blocked her afterwards

Haffiq had met the girl, who is a school dropout, through social media a few months before allegedly committing the crime.

He allegedly raped the girl on Oct. 20 at around 12:30am.

Prior to the act, he had also reportedly promised to marry her, but later went missing after blocking the girl on phone and social media.

He was arrested on Nov. 6 after the girl lodged a police report on Nov. 4, reported Harian Metro.

Granted bail while case is ongoing

Haffiq, who was unrepresented, was charged with statutory rape.

He has pleaded not guilty.

The court allowed him to be released on bail of RM10,000 (S$3,153) with one surety.

He was also ordered to report to the nearest police station every month, and not to communicate with or disturb relevant witnesses until the case is concluded.

The case has been fixed for mention on Jan. 6, 2026 for the submission of documents and for the appointment of the Haffiq's lawyer.

If convicted, he may face up to 20 years' jail and caning, under Malaysian law.

Top photos via Harian Metro & Canva