In a case that has garnered widespread public attention, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has emphasized that justice for Zara Qairina Mahathir’s death must be pursued strictly according to the law, not shaped by social media or public opinion.
Speaking at the Home Ministry’s monthly assembly, the minister acknowledged the challenges faced by the police in the face of rampant speculation. “Rumours and all sorts of stories are being spread, sometimes beyond our control,” he said. “People will choose what they want to believe.”
Saifuddin affirmed that the police investigation had followed all established procedures and rejected any allegations of a cover-up. He confirmed that a post-mortem was conducted by a team of four medical specialists, with the findings shared with both the family and investigators. He added that if any evidence was found to be missing, those responsible would be held accountable, noting that the federal police headquarters, Bukit Aman, had already addressed the matter.
He also issued a stern warning against attempts to politicize the tragedy. “We cannot ride on the grief of others for political mileage,” he stated. “This involves the death of an only child; a family’s sadness should not be manipulated.”
The minister confirmed that the police have completed their investigation and have submitted their findings to the Attorney-General’s Chambers (A-GC). The A-GC will now determine which legal sections apply and decide whether to proceed with charges or recommend an inquest. “If they feel there is a need for an inquest, it will be an open court to determine the cause,” he said. “Go ahead.”
Zara, a 13-year-old student at SMKA Tun Mustapha, was found unconscious at her school dormitory in Papar on July 16 and was pronounced dead the following day. Her mother had publicly called for the exhumation of her body, citing suspicions about the circumstances of her death. Federal police have since confirmed that there were elements of bullying involved in the case. Following Zara’s death, five teenagers are set to face charges at the Kota Kinabalu Court for Children. The case has sparked widespread public outcry and calls for justice.
