THE legal team representing the family of the late Zara Qairina Mahathir has called for all solidarity gatherings to be temporarily postponed until the ongoing inquest into her death concludes in full.
The request follows an appeal by Zara’s mother, Noraidah Lamat, 45, who has asked for space and calm as the court proceedings continue.
“We appreciate the public’s support through peaceful gatherings under the Justice For Zara movement, and we are deeply thankful for the contributions made towards the appointment of expert witnesses across various fields to assist our client, Zara’s mother, during the inquest,” read a joint statement from the family’s lawyers.
The statement was signed by Rizwandean M Borhan, Shahlan Jufri, Mohd Syarulnizam Mohd Salleh, Mohd Luqman Syazwan Zabidi, Farrah Nasser and Elhanan James.
The lawyers also urged the public to exercise caution when commenting on the inquest, particularly on social media, stressing the risk of sub judice and the potential to disrupt the legal process.
“We and our client do not want the name or slogan of Justice For Zara to be tainted by irresponsible acts. We urge everyone to be mindful when offering criticism or commentary online about the proceedings and the evidence presented,” they said.
The legal team noted that several individuals have already been arrested and charged in court over comments or speeches made in relation to the Justice For Zara movement.
They emphasised that while public solidarity is appreciated, gatherings should only resume once the court has completed its work.
“For now, let us allow the court to fulfil its duty. With patience and faith in the judicial process, the truth will emerge and justice will be served,” the statement continued.
The inquest into the death of seven-year-old Zara Qairina began on 3 September and is scheduled to run for 17 days. As of the seventh day of proceedings, six witnesses have taken the stand and the court has conducted a site visit to the location of the incident.
The inquest will resume next Wednesday, with two key witnesses — a child and a medical doctor — expected to testify. - September 13, 2025
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