KOTA KINABALU, Aug 21 – A lawyer representing the mother of Zara Qairina Mahathir has clarified a photograph featuring Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali. Shahlan Jufri stated that the image, taken in June 2023, is unrelated to Zara’s death or her mother Noraidah Lamat. He described attempts to link the photo to the case as “malicious slander” aimed at misleading the public.
Shahlan emphasized his commitment to seeking justice for Zara and asserted that he operates without bias. He detailed the ongoing legal process since his appointment, including the exhumation of Zara’s grave, completion of a post-mortem, and efforts for a heavier sentence for the accused. The application for an inquest has also been approved and is currently in progress.
The photo, which also included Datuk Ram Singh, a lawyer for the accused in the bullying trial, went viral recently. In response to circulating allegations about Noraidah seeking donations, Shahlan and his co-counsel stated they are acting pro bono. Additionally, Datuk Ram Singh corroborated that the defense team is providing services at no cost. Five teenage girls were charged last month at the Children’s Court in Kota Kinabalu with verbally abusing Zara, a Form One student.
- Why it matters: This clarification underscores the necessity of maintaining integrity in high-profile legal cases and ensures that public discourse remains fact-based.
- The ongoing legal proceedings could set significant precedents for how bullying cases are handled in Malaysia.
- The latest: An inquest into Zara Qairina’s death has been approved and is currently underway.
Source: https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/08/21/zara-qairinas-familys-lawyer-downplays-viral-photo-with-hajiji-and-armizan-says-committed-to-seek-justice/188391
Source: https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/08/21/zara-qairinas-familys-lawyer-downplays-viral-photo-with-hajiji-and-armizan-says-committed-to-seek-justice/188391