Copyright scmp
The Malaysian family of the primary Four pupil who was found dead in his school toilet in Senawang, Negeri Sembilan state, is seeking updates from authorities on the case. Lawyer Muhammad Yazid Mohamad Salim said it has been more than a month since the incident happened. “The family has only received information from the pathologist who conducted the postmortem [examination]. There has been no official explanation from any other authorities,” he told a press conference on Monday. Muhammad Yazid said the postmortem examination conducted on October 2 found that the cause of death was pressure to the neck. However, he said the family has yet to see the full report. “The doctor told us there was a 3cm mark around the neck, possibly caused by a scarf, and another 1cm mark located symmetrically towards the front with a slight break at the front. “The actual cause of death, which of these marks led to it, has yet to be clarified,” he said. Muhammad Yazid, who was formally appointed as the family’s lawyer on October 15, said there is an urgent need for the Attorney General’s Chambers to act swiftly on the case. “We were informed by the deputy public prosecutor that they are still waiting for a date to present the case to the Attorney General. “We urge that this process be expedited and that the family not be left waiting without answers,” he said. He added that an inquest would be crucial if the current investigation failed to provide clarity on how the boy died. “An inquest would allow all parties involved, including teachers, pupils and other witnesses, to be called to testify before the Coroner’s Court. At the very least, the family deserves to hear the testimonies directly,” he said. When contacted, Negeri Sembilan police chief Deputy Commissioner Alzafny Ahmad said the investigation paper was still with the deputy public prosecutor. On October 14, he said police had wrapped up investigations into the death of the pupil after recording statements from 49 witnesses. He said police would wait for further instructions from the prosecution on the next course of action. In a statement, the education ministry said it acknowledges the statement issued by the boy’s family. “The ministry has called for all aspects related to the incident to be thoroughly investigated. At present, the case remains under police investigation. “Firm action must be taken against anyone found responsible. Justice must be served,” it said on Monday. This article was first published by The Star
