YOUTH and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari has called for answers over the death of an 11-year-old girl with a heart condition following an incident during a school sports activity in Kedah.
Taufiq said the investigation into the death of Nur Qaira Alisha Ahmad ‘Ilwan must establish the facts and determine whether there were any lapses involving her safety.
He said he had been informed that the education authorities were looking into a complaint by the girl’s family over the April 14 incident at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Bukit Pakiau.
“The matter must be investigated thoroughly, transparently and with integrity. No aspect related to the incident should be overlooked, and all parties concerned must be allowed to provide their statements and explanations,” he said in a statement today.
Taufiq, who is also Sungai Petani MP, said the investigation should be allowed to proceed without assumptions being made before all relevant information had been examined.
He added that action should be taken if the probe establishes negligence, misconduct or a breach of regulations.
“The safety and welfare of pupils cannot be taken lightly. We cannot compromise when weaknesses are identified,” he said.
The case surfaced publicly after the girl’s father alleged on social media that his daughter had been told to take part in an 80-metre race despite the school having been given a letter informing it of her heart condition.
The Kedah Education Department later confirmed that the teacher involved had been transferred to another school following an initial investigation, describing the move as an early intervention.
The matter has since been referred to the Education Ministry’s Integrity Unit.
Taufiq also extended his condolences to Nur Qaira Alisha’s family, saying they should be given the space and support needed as they deal with the loss. – August 29, 2026
