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In the small town of Papar, Sabah, Malaysia, the investigation into the death of 13-year-old Form One student Zara Qairina Mahathir continues, with no evidence linking the children of Very Important Persons (VIPs) to the tragedy.
Zara, a student at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama (SMKA) Tun Datu Mustapha, was found unconscious near a drain outside her female dormitory on July 17, 2025. It is believed she fell from the third floor of the school's dormitory, suffering severe internal injuries. Despite medical efforts, she was declared brain dead and her family chose to stop life support, burying her shortly afterward without a post-mortem.
The investigation into Zara's death is being led by the Papar police, with Superintendent Kamaruddin Ambo Sakka at the helm. He has affirmed that authorities are committed to a thorough, impartial probe, and have recorded statements from 60 witnesses, including teachers and students.
However, Zara's mother, Noraidah Lamat, has expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of the case. She suspects that her daughter did not commit suicide and believes criminal elements may be involved. In response, she has initiated legal proceedings to have Zara's body exhumed for a post-mortem and an inquest to determine the true cause of death.
Controversy has surrounded the case, with allegations linking the wife of a government official, Sepanggar MP Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, to the incident. However, the MP has strongly denied these claims, noting his wife retired from her role as school principal months before the incident occurred.
As the investigation continues, Superintendent Kamaruddin Ambo Sakka has urged the public to avoid spreading speculation that could disrupt the case. Social media rumors have falsely linked the student's death to a minister's child and other influential figures. The police chief has also emphasised that they will not compromise or protect anyone, regardless of background.
The investigation papers related to Zara's death have been sent to Bukit Aman for review, with the aim of ensuring justice for the victim's family. As of August 2, 2023, the investigation remains ongoing.
- The ongoing investigation into Zara Qairina Mahathir's death in Papar, Malaysia, expands beyond general news, delving into crime-and-justice as Noraidah Lamat, Zara's mother, suspects criminal elements may be involved and initiates legal steps for a post-mortem and inquest.
- The Malaysian political landscape intertwines with the investigation, as unsubstantiated accusations link Sepanggar MP Datuk Mustapha Sakmud's wife to the incident, although he denies the claims, given his wife retired before the incident occurred.
- Despite the swirling speculations on social media regarding connections between Zara's death and children of VIPs, the authorities in the Papar police force remain dedicated to an impartial investigation, ensuring the papers are reviewed thoroughly and justice is served for the general-news headline of the 13-year-old's death.
