A Bali man charged with possessing nine grams of marijuana has denied being the boyfriend of convicted Australian drug smuggler Schapelle Corby.

Bernard P. Simanjunta, who is better known as Ben Panangian, appeared in Denpasar Court on November 12 and was questioned by the judge as to his links to Ms Corby.

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The 32-year-old, who has previously been identified by media as Ms Corby’s boyfriend, denied reports of a romantic relationship.

“Friend or friend?” the judge asked.

“I know her just as a friend,” Mr Panangian replied.

Ms Corby, who was released from Bali’s Kerobokan Prison in February, is currently on parole. Her parole conditions state that she cannot be involved in crime.

Ms Corby’s mother Roseleigh Rose all denied reports her daughter is in a relationship with Mr Panangian.

Mr Panangian was arrested on August 20 for possession, carrying and use of marijuana.

He has admitted to possessing marijuana and, if convicted, Mr Panangian could spend up to 12 years in jail.