SIBU (July 11): A local singer claimed trial in the Sessions Court here today to a charge of non-consensual carnal intercourse with a teenage boy here in March last year.

Ambrose Neli, 36, better known by his stage name Wai Buntas, pleaded not guilty after the charge was read to him in Iban by the court interpreter.

Judge Musyiri Peet then fixed Aug 20 for further mention of the case.

The court also allowed Ambrose to be released on RM7,000 with two local sureties.

According to the charge, Ambrose allegedly performed non-consensual oral sex on a boy aged, 17 years and three months, at a longhouse in Sibu around 2am on March 9, 2024.

He faces a charge under Section 377C of the Penal Code, which carries a sentence of between five and 20 years in prison and caning upon conviction.

Deputy public prosecutor Aiman Zarith appeared for the prosecution while Ambrose was represented by lawyer Harold Emparak.

Wai Buntas rose to popularity with duets such as ‘Agi Ka Sekali Da’, ‘Aku Ka Sarak’, and ‘Taukey Lungun’, as well as solo tracks such as ‘Wai Buntas Begawai’, ‘Wai Buntas Milih Bini’, ‘Dik Ngaru Rekung’, and ‘Bini Tua’.

Ambrose Neli lead Sibu Sessions Court Wai Buntas