Police Confirm Bullying Played a Role in Zara Qairina’s Death

The case of 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir has taken Malaysia by storm. Not only has it sparked widespread discussion across the country, but it has also reached several international news outlets.

On July 16, 2025, Zara was believed to have fallen from the third floor of her dormitory in Papar, Sabah. She was found unconscious near a drain outside the hostel and was rushed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.

Image Credit: Utusan

The case gained notoriety after claims that Zara had been a victim of bullying began circulating on social media. Her body was eventually exhumed for a post-mortem after her family alleged foul play.

Recently, police revealed that elements of bullying were present in the investigation into her death.

Federal Police Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Inspector Datuk M. Kumar stated that the task force had obtained statements indicating that bullying had occurred prior to the incident involving Zara.

Image Credit: FMT

As reported by NST, Kumar said police have recorded 82 statements to date, including from students.

“We may recall some of them to have further statements recorded as the task force probe develops,” he said.

Kumar also urged the public to give authorities time to conduct a thorough investigation and assured that all findings will be disclosed.

In related news, a woman has been detained for spreading false information regarding Zara Qairina’s case. According to The Star, the 39-year-old woman made a false claim alleging that Zara had been placed in a washing machine before her death.

The case is currently being investigated under Section 4(1) of the Sedition Act and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act. It is understood that this case is among 15 investigation papers opened in connection with fake news surrounding Zara Qairina’s death.

“We have to take stern action against fake news as it could disrupt public order and hinder the investigation process,” Kumar added.

Featured Image Credit: The Sun, The Star