The parents of an autistic six-year-old boy who was allegedly murder in Malaysia in December have been charged with child negligence, sparking outrage across the country. The grandparents of the boy, who were also arrested to assist with investigations, are set to be released on bail. The charges under Section 302 of the Penal Code deal with murder and could result in a death sentence or imprisonment of up to 40 years.
Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matiin’s parents, Zaim Ikhwan Zahari and Ismanira Abdul Manaf, pleaded not guilty to the offence under the Child Act 2001. The charges carry a maximum fine of RM50,000 or imprisonment up to 20 years. The couple, both 29 years old, were arrested on May 31 and had their remand period extended to assist with the murder investigation. Zaim was notified about his upcoming court appearance at the last minute, while Ismanira entered court accompanied by family members.
It was reported that Zayn went missing on December 5 in Selangor, and his body was found a day later near his home with self-defence injuries indicating that he had been killed. A mass DNA screening was conducted, 228 samples were collected, and witnesses were brought to the scene to assist with the investigation. By January, statements from over 200 individuals had been recorded, and the investigation was said to be 90% complete.
The parents’ lawyers denied allegations that Ismanira had confessed to the crime, stating that she had only provided a statement to the magistrate. The lawyers also raised objections to a police request for a guilty admission. Ismanira reported her son missing after he was last seen by schoolchildren entering a jungle near their home. Despite efforts by the Fire and Rescue Department and police, no clues were found in that area.
The tragic case of Zayn’s murder has shocked the country, with the details of the investigation slowly coming to light. The focus on the alleged child negligence by the boy’s parents has brought attention to the issue of caring for children with special needs. The court proceedings and ongoing investigation have gripped the nation, with many awaiting the final outcome of the case. As the legal process unfolds, the memory of Zayn and the quest for justice for his death continue to be at the forefront of the nation’s consciousness.
