THE University of Cyberjaya has suspended two students believed to be linked to the death of 20-year-old physiotherapy student Maniishapriet Kaur Akhara, and has stepped up security measures at its off-campus residences amid growing public concern.
In a statement released on Saturday, the university confirmed that it had “taken prompt disciplinary action by suspending two students who may be connected to the recent incident involving the late Maniishapriet Kaur Akhara”. The suspensions will remain in effect pending the outcome of police investigations.
Maniishapriet was found unconscious on Tuesday morning in her unit at Mutiara Ville, a condominium used by the university for student housing located approximately 1.5 kilometres from campus.
Emergency services declared her dead at the scene. A post-mortem confirmed that she died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head. Police are treating the case as murder under Section 302 of the Penal Code.
Reports indicate the victim had stayed behind alone at the residence to prepare for examinations, while her five flatmates had returned home for the holidays on 21 June. Her body was discovered by a friend at around 10am on the day of the incident.
Sepang police chief Assistant Commissioner Norhizam Bahaman said there were no signs of forced entry into the premises and ruled out sexual assault, despite unverified claims circulating on social media.
He added that the three suspects arrested in connection with the case – a man and two women aged between 19 and 20 – were known to the victim and were apprehended within 48 hours in Johor and Negeri Sembilan.
News reports cited one of the suspects used the victim’s debit card shortly after the incident to make multiple ATM withdrawals. A mobile phone, a laptop and a sum of cash were also said to be missing from the scene.
The case has triggered widespread concern regarding the safety of students living in university-arranged accommodation, particularly at private institutions.
In response to the incident, the University of Cyberjaya has introduced increased security patrols and deployed additional security personnel at off-campus residences managed by external firms.
“The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our utmost priority. We are deeply saddened by the recent events and are taking firm, immediate steps to ensure our community feels protected and supported,” said Vice-Chancellor Dr David Whitford.
The tragedy has reignited calls for stronger oversight and security at student residences across the country, particularly for young people living far from home while pursuing their studies. - June 28, 2025
