Noraini Haron, 42, and workshop assistant Khairul Shamsua Israk, 38, made the plea after the charge was read out to them before judge Surita Budin.

As persons having the care of the girl, they were charged with neglecting her to the extent of causing her death at Taman Mayung, Port Dickson, near here between March 18 and March 24 this year.

The charge was framed under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act, read with Section 34 of the Penal Code.

The couple may face up to 20 years in prison, a fine of RM50,000 or both.

The court allowed them bail of RM20,000 with one surety each and ordered them to report to a police station once a month.

The court also set May 2 for the submission of a forensic report.

The prosecution was handled by deputy public prosecutor Noor Syafina Radzuan while the two accused were unrepresented.