PM wants swift, transparent probe into Zara Qairina's death
Published on: Sun, Aug 03, 2025
By: Bernama Text Size: Pic by Bernama KOTA KINABALU: The death of student Zara Qairina Mahathir has drawn the attention of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim ( pic ), who stressed that investigations must be conducted transparently and thoroughly. The prime minister said he had discussed the matter with Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail and Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail to ensure the probe is conducted swiftly and comprehensively. 'There was a death recently, and the Education Minister (Fadhlina Sidek) is being attacked and accused of various things. What has become of our country? This death is not a trivial matter,' he said during his speech at the closing ceremony of the National Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen Day 2025 here today. Also present were Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and his deputy Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup. Anwar also reminded the public not to make speculations or accusations without evidence, emphasising that Malaysia is a nation founded on the rule of law. 'This is a nation of law, not slander. Whoever is involved in a criminal act such as murder will not be protected,' Anwar said. Zara Qairina, 13, was believed to have fallen from the third floor and was found unconscious in a drain near her school dormitory in Papar, Sabah, at 4 am on July 16. She was pronounced dead at Queen Elizabeth I Hospital here on July 17. The student's death quickly went viral, sparking widespread public reaction on social media. Yesterday, Mohd Khalid said the investigation paper regarding Zara Qairina's death had been completed and would be submitted to the Attorney General's Chambers for further action. * 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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