Wong Aik Yen, 40, was charged in two separate courts before judges Noor Hafizah Salim and Marlina Ibrahim. He claimed trial to all four charges, Daily Express reported.

Wong was accused of trafficking the four girls, aged 13 to 16, at a residence, wellness centre, and hotel in Kota Kinabalu in March 2023, December 2024, and January this year.

The charges were framed under Section 14 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007, which provides for five years to life in prison and whipping, upon conviction.

Both courts fixed March 26 for mention and ordered Wong to remain in remand until the disposal of the case.

Deputy public prosecutor Dacia Jane Romanus prosecuted while Wong was represented by counsel Syazwan Shah Ali.