KUCHING: A man was sentenced to five years’ jail by the Sessions Court on Tuesday for setting fire to his neighbour’s car, causing over RM1,100 in damages.
Kelvin Kelly Sandah, 24, pleaded guilty to committing mischief by fire to a 42-year-old man’s vehicle at a flat in Matang on Nov 2, 2025.
The charge was read in front of Judge Noorhisham Mohd Jaafar.
According to the charge, the offence occurred around 9am in the car park, causing damage to the rear of the car, including a broken rear door glass and burn marks on the left rear passenger seat.
Investigations showed that the incident caused RM1,125.20 in damages.
The case was prosecuted under Section 435 of the Penal Code, which carries a maximum jail term of 14 years and may also include a fine.
Court records showed that the complainant was alerted by a neighbour about the fire before inspecting the car.
The offence was witnessed by a neighbour who has known Kelvin for over 20 years.
A police report was lodged, leading to Kelvin’s arrest on Jan 12.
Police noted that he had previously had a dispute with the complainant.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Adriana Maisarah Mohd Farid handled the prosecution, while Kelvin was not represented in court.
