Hundreds gather in vigil demanding justice for Zara Qairina
The vigil, which began at 7.30pm, was organised by Suara Mahasiswa UMS in collaboration with Gerakan Anak Muda Pantai Timur (GEMPUR).
The event carried three core messages: a demand for justice, a call for systemic reform, and solidarity with Zara's family.
Sudirman Arshad, spokesperson for Suara Mahasiswa UMS and coordinator of GEMPUR, said the #JusticeForZara vigil was held to send a clear message that no one is above the law.
"If someone is guilty, they must face the consequences regardless of their background or family connections," he told the New Straits Times when contacted.
He added that the gathering also called for reforms to the boarding school system to better address bullying.
Among the demands were the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, protection for whistleblowers and complainants, and the implementation of comprehensive anti-bullying awareness programmes.
"We are no longer talking about minor bullying. Zara didn't just fall down some stairs.
"Her body was broken, her spirit crushed but most shattered of all is her mother, left to carry a wound that will never heal.
"Not because of fate, but due to the negligence and inaction of those responsible for her care."
Zara, a Form 1 student at a school in Papar, Sabah, was found unconscious after allegedly falling from the dormitory building. She was later pronounced dead at Queen Elizabeth I Hospital (HQE I) at 11am on July 17.
The incident went viral on social media following allegations that the bullying involved children of ministers, VIPs and influential individuals, prompting widespread public reaction online.
On Aug 1, Zara's family reportedly requested a formal inquest to determine whether criminal elements were involved in her death. However, there have been no further developments reported since.
Meanwhile, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail had confirmed that the investigation paper on Zara's death has been submitted to the Attorney-General's Chambers (A-GC) today.
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11 hours ago
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