SINGAPORE: In a dramatic turn of events during the ongoing trial of music producer Ken Lim, a close friend of the alleged victim provided a gripping account that has left the courtroom in suspense.

Under intense scrutiny from Lim’s defense lawyer, the friend unwaveringly recounted the “very graphic” details of a disturbing meeting that the 25-year-old woman claimed took place during a work interview on November 23, 2021, at Hype Records.

Background on Ken Lim's Case

Ken Lim, widely recognized as a judge on Singapore Idol, faces serious accusations of molesting the young woman during a series of meetings. This incident has brought to light additional claims against him, spanning from 1998 to 2013, involving inappropriate remarks to various women. Lim has denied all seven allegations made by five different women, adamantly contesting the charges through five separate trials.

Testimony Highlights

During the hearing on November 28, the friend testified that the alleged victim had candidly shared “very graphic” details of the encounter in a video call shortly after it occurred. She described an appalling scenario where Lim allegedly asked the woman to perform sexual acts and even indicated he wanted to tie her up.

A chilling moment emerged when the complainant allegedly responded to Lim's proposition with a cryptic statement about choosing “change” after leaving the room, implying the incomprehensible nature of the situation she faced.

Defense Challenges

Defense lawyer, Senior Counsel Tan Chee Meng, challenged the friend’s recollection of the events, particularly focusing on the allegation that Lim had propositioned the complainant for sex. The friend stood by her claims, despite the lawyer pointing out inconsistencies in testimony presented by both the complainant and her former boyfriend, who did not mention such propositions during their court appearances.

Observations of the Courtroom Dynamics

Lim’s reaction was particularly notable; he reportedly smiled and shook his head during the testimony, as though dismissing the gravity of the allegations against him.

Emotional Impact and Reactions

As the interrogation continued, the friend struggled to remember the exact sequence of events, citing her primary concern was providing emotional support to the complainant during the distressing time. However, she vividly recollected the chaotic atmosphere of the video call, where the complainant allegedly acted out the inappropriate groping incident while crossing a road in Orchard.

The courtroom witnessed heightened tension when the friend disclosed that the complainant felt “forced” to kiss Lim during the interview, emphasizing that the encounter was far from consensual. She articulated that the complainant believed she had to comply with Lim's advances to enhance her chances of securing the job—a heartbreaking revelation that sparked gasps in the audience.

Ongoing Emotional Turmoil

The narrative further deepened as the friend recalled discussions where the complainant expressed her regret for not fully understanding what the “change” in Lim's context entailed. With the revelations of their ongoing conversations post-incident, the friend detailed how the complainant grappled with feelings of uncertainty and fear regarding the aftermath of the encounter.

Future Proceedings

The prosecution is expected to dig deeper into the allegations, while Lim’s legal team continues to challenge witness credibility. The trial is unfolding with intense scrutiny as it tackles sensitive issues of consent and the complexities surrounding accusations of sexual misconduct.

Conclusion

As this gripping legal battle continues, many are left wondering: Will the truth prevail, or will this case become another cautionary tale of the music industry's darker side? Stay tuned as this story develops.