
Zara Qairina case: Sabah Dapsy urges suspension of school officials
Published on: Wed, Aug 13, 2025 Text Size: Sabah Dapsy chief Chan Loong Wei ( pic ) has called on the Education Ministry (MOE) to suspend the principal, senior assistant for student affairs, and all wardens of SMKA Tun Datu Mustapha pending the investigation into the death of Zara Qairina Mahathir. Chan, in a statement on Wednesday, said suspension, rather than mere relocation to the State Education Department, was necessary to ensure the investigation proceeded independently and without influence from those involved. He stressed that allowing individuals under investigation to remain in active positions elsewhere could undermine public confidence in the transparency of the process. According to Chan, a zero-tolerance approach was needed to address any perception of interference with witnesses, students, or school staff. Sabah Dapsy reaffirmed its solidarity with Zara's family and the people of Sabah in seeking full accountability and justice, adding that justice must be seen to be done. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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