THE police have officially submitted the investigation papers regarding the death of 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC), with the inquiry now complete, said Minister of Home Affairs Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail on Monday.
Assuring the Dewan Rakyat, Saifuddin stressed, “From the outset of the incident until the second post-mortem and subsequent investigations, there has been no attempt at cover-up by any authorities. All actions taken are based on facts, reports, and legitimate requests. The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) have and will continue to conduct thorough and ongoing investigations.”
The minister dismissed several circulating allegations, including claims that a grandchild of the Sabah Yang di-Pertua Negeri was involved, that the school principal is married to a minister, and the false assertion that the victim died due to abuse in a washing machine.
“Police investigations found none of these claims to be true, despite statements from 195 witnesses.”
In Parliament, Saifuddin also revealed that an English teacher who posted a TikTok video alleging that Zara was killed by being put in a washing machine admitted it was merely “content” creation.
“When questioned why, the teacher said it was for content. This was swallowed whole by many, both inside and outside Parliament,” he said, warning against misinformation fuelled by emotions and sentiment.
The police have interviewed 195 witnesses, including 38 summoned between 18 and 25 July, and the investigation now extends to those attempting to manipulate the case to disrupt public order.
“Justice must be based on evidence and law. This is a very serious case involving the loss of a 13-year-old child, the only daughter in her family,” Saifuddin emphasised, urging all parties to respect due process rather than speculation or political pressure.
Meanwhile, Zara’s mother, through her lawyer Hamid Ismail, appealed for witnesses, particularly students, to come forward with information.
“She is very grateful for the Prime Minister’s assurance that no one will escape legal action,” said Hamid, who also urged netizens and the public not to intimidate witnesses.
Hamid welcomed peaceful solidarity gatherings but insisted they remain orderly and free from political interference. “This is for Zara, not any political party. Those who politicise the event should be rejected,” he said.
The remarks were made during proceedings at the Kota Kinabalu Coroner’s Court in relation to the ongoing inquest into Zara Qairina’s death. - August 18, 2025
