Ramasamy, who was the PHEB chairman from 2010 to 2023, is accused of using RM859,131.29 in PHEB funds between May 2019 and February 2022 without obtaining the board’s formal approval.

Thirteen charges against the 76-year-old are linked to the procurement of a RM779,131.29 gold-plated Thaipusam chariot in 2019. Two charges are linked to RM65,000 in medical assistance to individuals, while two other charges are linked to RM15,000 in education sponsorships.

Ramasamy pleaded not guilty after the charges were read out before judge Zulhazmi Abdullah at the sessions court here.

The charges were framed under Section 409 of the Penal Code, which provides for a maximum jail term of 20 years, whipping, and a fine upon conviction.

Bail was set at RM78,000.

Lawyers Shamsher Singh Thind, Eng Yuh Pei, and Archana Chandrasekaran represented Ramasamy while Azura Zulkiflee and Nurnajihatul Idayu Azuyar prosecuted.

Selva Mookiah held a watching brief for the PHEB.

During mitigation, Shamsher said Ramasamy had cooperated with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) throughout the investigation process, including by paying a RM20,000 MACC bond when he was first arrested on May 12, 2024.

Shamsher also said his client had not bothered anyone during the investigation or put anyone in PHEB under duress.

“The court must take his character, means, and standing into account. He is an Indian community leader without a title,” he said.

The court set July 15 for mention.