IPOH, March 7 -- The High Court here has deemed the additional evidence submitted by former Perak executive councillor Paul Yong Choo Kiong in his appeal against his conviction for raping his former Indonesian maid as hearsay.

High Court Judge Datuk Abdul Wahab Mohamed concluded that hearsay evidence cannot be admitted in court unless it meets the criteria stipulated by law.

"The High Court is of the opinion that the additional evidence constitutes hearsay. Therefore, it is not reasonable to accept it or give it consideration, especially as other factors in the evidence question its authenticity.

"Thus, the High Court maintains its earlier decision that the defence team could not raise any reasonable doubt, and the punishment should re...