Nowadays, the proliferation of video-enabled devices brings downfall of many. some people themselves want to record their precious moments, while others let their guards down during the intimate times. end results is that we see videos and photos grabbed from devices like handphones and laptops. From the HK singer to nurse in Penang, this is a global phenomenon.

There are comparisons being made with Ali Rustam and Chua Soi Lek, which I think its inappropriate in some ways (for one, both denied vehemently while Elizabeth did not). However, there’s another angle now – crime on the part of the ex-boyfriend who is suspected of taking the photos. He may be charged with zina or khalwat, and this may cause him to run away (seems he’s in indonesia at the moment).

Our country rules are quite strict, similar to other countries. Possession of nude photos (of even your own self) can be arrested. If caught distributing, lagi teruk. Thus the ex-boyfriend (if he did it) is in deep trouble. So, would he turn up in Malaysia?

From BN point of view, they may or may not be involved. For all we know, some local leader in PJ could have known about the relationship ending and approached the boyfriend, without knowledge of BN top guns. For all we know, it could have been a rival in PKR, or some of the offended contractors in PJ. Regardless of who may be behind the scene, its the owner of the device who captured the images who is most crucial in solving this problem.

From what I understand, there are 2 photos, but there may be more, including a video clip. The forensics will need to do their magic to identify the authenticity of the images. Even though the victim said she is the one in the pictures, it may be due to her clouded mind or clever superimposing techniques. So, while the chase is on to catch the criminal, the authenticity of the images must be done. I have not seen anyone claiming to do that yet. Just admission by the victim is not enough.

The bigger issue here is the possible existence of a relationship (that is more than just holding hands) between two individuals without a legal endorsement (marriage). Its prohibited in almost all religions. Thus, the YB must ask herself from the religion point of view. I think she’s a Christian (can anyone clarify?), so have to check with her church.

Second is the issue of conduct. Being a person holding public office, she has to be on guard  all the time. According to police, the images were from late last year, so its possible that it was after some festival or party (We had Deepavali, Hari Raya, X’mas, and New Year) when the couple was at home and at ease. She could have been under influence of alcohol (not crime) or other substance (a crime if taken knowingly), thus not in control of her mental faculties. Legally, looks like she did not commit any crime, but the perpetrator did by taking and distributing the photos. Was she aware of her partner taking the photos/videos? A crucial question.

I think most Malaysians, except Khir Toyo (read here), PAS, and Syed Hamid can accept her reason and sympathise with her. I think Gerakan and MCA also seem to be supporting her (perhaps with a longer plan of bringing back this issue in next election). I remember reading PAS statement that a person can buka aurat in their own house, and yet say that for Muslims its wrong to be “berdua-duaan”. Unfortunately, Elizabeth is not a muslim, thus what Islam-based leaders, thinkers, political parties, and scriptures say is irrelevant here.

Ultimately, she has to answer to her own conscience, and of course the party may play a role too. The PR leader will be worried that her case will be used in the Twin Peaks by-elections. Thus, there’s an internal element of pressure to resign as well on her.

The residents of Bukit Lanjan seemed to be happy with her work. MBPJ councillors also rate her favorably. NGOs too. Thus if they come out in force to show their support, Elizabeth may as well stay in position. She has offered her resignation, which the MB said will confer with the Sultan before making any decision.

The Sultan of Selangor most likely rule for resignation. That’s my opinion.

While the media and public continue talking about this issue until the next one pops up, we shall not forget that getting the criminal is of utmost important. The person may have revenge or financial gain to reveal the pictures. As the parliamentary women’s caucus points out, its also sexual harassment crime.

Addendum:

– Chua Soi Lek denied the affair while Elizabeth admitted it was her photos

– Chua Soi Lek was married and having extra-marital affair while Elizabeth is single

– Chua Soi Lek did not offer to resign while Elizabeth did so

– Chua Soi Lek was willing participant while Elizabeth was not (at least so far)

– Public opinion on Chua was negative while its positive for Elizabeth

– Chua’s scandal exposure looked like a campaign while Elizabeth’s case may be motivated by revenge (till more evidence turns up)

– Both held public office thus have certain degree of responsibility

– Both cases involve moral issue but Elizabeth’s case is criminal in nature (sexual harassment)