CHANTS of “Justice for Zara” echoed through the streets near the Sogo shopping complex here on Saturday night, as hundreds gathered in a sombre show of solidarity for 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir, who died last month under disturbing circumstances.
According to Sinar Harian, the crowd began assembling from as early as 8pm, holding placards reading “Justice For Zara Qairina” and “We Reject Bullying” while community activists delivered impassioned speeches demanding accountability. The gathering, observed closely by security personnel, remained peaceful throughout.
Zara was found unconscious in a drain near the dormitory of SMKA Tun Datu Mustapha in Papar, Sabah, around 4am on 16 July. She was pronounced dead the following day at Queen Elizabeth I Hospital in Kota Kinabalu. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and rekindled debates on student safety and bullying within educational institutions.
Meanwhile, a parallel rally in Ipoh saw thousands attend a peaceful vigil at Padang Polo (Taman Rekreasi Sultan Abdul Aziz), organised by the Perak People’s Awareness Association. Participants carried banners with messages including “Justice Is Not To Be Silenced”, “Justice Must Be Upheld” and “Stop Bullying Now”. Prayers and recitations were held in remembrance of the late student.
Authorities have so far recorded over 80 witness statements, including those from students. The Attorney General’s Chambers has confirmed that a full inquiry will be conducted at the Coroner’s Court to ascertain the exact cause of death.
In Kuala Lumpur, Dang Wangi District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Sulizmie Affendy Sulaiman stated that officers closely monitored the rally near Sogo to ensure compliance with legal and safety protocols.
“A recording team was deployed throughout the gathering for surveillance. Should any speech breach the law or touch on sensitive 3R issues—religion, race, or royalty—a report will be filed and individuals involved will be called for further investigation,” he said at a post-rally press conference.
He confirmed the event, which lasted from 8.30pm to around 11pm, remained incident-free. A total of 100 officers, including traffic personnel, were on duty from 7.30pm to manage the gathering and maintain order.
Estimated attendance was between 400 to 450 people, many of whom wore all black in a unified show of mourning. Social media influencers were also present at the rally organised by non-governmental organisations.
The atmosphere turned poignant as the song ‘Justice for Zara Qairina’ was played, prompting the crowd to chant the slogan in unison—“Justice for Zara”. - August 17, 2025
