The parents of an autistic six-year-old boy who was allegedly murdered in Malaysia’s Selangor state last December have been charged with child negligence. Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matiin’s grandparents, who were arrested to assist with investigations under Section 302 of the Penal Code, are set to be released on bail. Section 302 deals with murder and carries severe penalties upon conviction.
Zayn’s parents, Zaim Ikhwan Zahari and Ismanira Abdul Manaf, pleaded not guilty to the offence under the Child Act 2001 in court. They were arrested on May 31 and remanded for an extended period to assist in the murder investigation. The charges carry a maximum fine of RM50,000 or imprisonment of up to 20 years upon conviction.
The parents’ lawyers denied allegations that Ismanira had made a confession recorded under the Evidence Act 1950. Meanwhile, they objected to a police request for guilty admission. Zayn’s disappearance was noticed by his mother on Dec 5 last year, leading to a massive search operation that eventually found his body near his home with signs of self-defence injuries.
Following Zayn’s disappearance, his mother notified local authorities and filed a police report. However, a search in the jungle near their home yielded no clues about his whereabouts. His body was found close to a stream a day later, leading to a conclusion that he had been killed. A mass DNA screening was conducted, and statements from over 200 individuals were recorded as part of the investigation, which was reported to be 90% complete by Jan 9.
The case of Zayn’s murder has sparked outrage and sorrow across Malaysia. The tragic incident has brought child negligence charges against the boy’s parents and raised questions about the safety and protection of vulnerable children. As the legal proceedings unfold, the community continues to seek justice for Zayn and reflection on how to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The investigation and court hearings regarding Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matiin’s murder are a stark reminder of the importance of child protection and the responsibility of parents and caregivers in ensuring the well-being of children.
