4 days ago
They should be suspended, not relocated, says DAP
Published on: Friday, August 15, 2025
Published on: Fri, Aug 15, 2025 Text Size: Chan emphasised the need for a zero-tolerance approach to any perception of interference or undue influence on witnesses, students, or school staff, adding that the safety, dignity and justice for students must take precedence over administrative convenience. Kota Kinabalu: Dapsy Sabah has called on the Education Ministry (MOE) to immediately suspend the principal, senior assistant for student affairs and wardens of SMKA Tun Datu Mustapha in connection with the death of student Zara Qairina Mahathir, instead of merely relocating them. Its chief, Chan Loong Wei, said the officers have been temporarily assigned to the Sabah State Education Department (JPN Sabah) pending investigation, but stressed that suspension is a more urgent and necessary measure to ensure the probe is conducted independently and without interference. 'Mere relocation is not enough. These officers must be suspended until investigations are completed and they are proven innocent. 'Allowing individuals under investigation to remain in active positions, even at different locations, risks eroding public confidence in the integrity of the investigation process,' he said in a statement on Wednesday. Chan emphasised the need for a zero-tolerance approach to any perception of interference or undue influence on witnesses, students, or school staff, adding that the safety, dignity and justice for students must take precedence over administrative convenience. He noted that suspension during investigations is standard practice in serious cases, particularly those involving the death of a student. He also reiterated Dapsy Sabah's solidarity with the victim's family and the people of Sabah in demanding accountability and transparency. 'Justice must not only be done, but must also be seen to be done,' Chan said. * 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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