Perlis national unity and integration department director Hanita Ahmad, 57, claimed trial after being charged before Butterworth sessions court judge Zulhazmi Abdullah today.

Hanita was accused of abusing her position as a public officer by recommending her husband Khashim Yahaya’s company Tegas Enterprise for the contract to provide food and beverage services for a 2017 event in Seberang Perai Utara.

The offence was allegedly committed on July 14, 2017, at the department’s office.

The charge was framed under Section 23(1) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009, which carries a maximum jail term of 20 years and a minimum fine of RM10,000, upon conviction.

The court allowed bail of RM8,000 with one surety and set Sept 30 for case management.

Deputy public prosecutor Noor Azura Zulkiflee appeared for the prosecution while Hanita was unrepresented.