Wan Nasrul Wan Ahmad, 31, will serve an additional six months in jail if he fails to pay the fine, said judge Thalha Bachok @ Embok Mok, Harian Metro reported.

The offence took place at the MBJB vehicle depot at 11.07am last Friday, causing RM24,000 in damages. CCTV footage showed Wan Nasrul pouring petrol and setting fire to the rear of the truck.

He pleaded guilty to mischief by fire under Section 435 of the Penal Code, which carries a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison and a fine.

The court was told that the incident occurred after his car was towed. Nasrul said he had appealed for a reduction in the compound from RM500 to RM250, but still could not afford to pay it.

“Yes, I burned it. I was angry because my car was towed. Even RM200, I couldn’t afford. I just wanted my car back.

“I have debts, a car, a motorcycle and house payments. I’m not married and just trying to start work,” he said in his appeal for a lighter sentence.

Deputy public prosecutor Siti Fatimah Mamu said the act was serious and could have endangered lives and property.

“MBJB had already shown discretion in reducing the compound, yet the accused still resorted to arson. We ask the court to prioritise public interest,” she said.

Wan Nasrul, who was unrepresented, maintained his guilty plea when the charge was reread to him in court today.