Singapore - A 70-year-old man faced a court Monday, charged with grievously harming a Singapore legislator by pouring paint thinner over him and setting it alight during a Sunday afternoon community club event.

Ong Kah Chua, a former taxi driver, was remanded in the custody of the Institute of Mental Health and is to reappear in court on January 23, Channel News Asia reported. He is accused of attacking Member of Parliament Seng Han Thong at the club, causing burns to 10 to 15 per cent of his body.

Also injured during the incident was the 69-year-old chairman of a Chinese temple, Aw Chui Seng.

News reports said Seng, 59, had undergone skin grafts at a local hospital after suffering severe burns to his face, arms and upper body.

Aw has also undergone skin grafts as he suffered burns when helping Seng beat out the flames. (dpa)