KUALA LUMPUR – The parents of 6-year-old Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matin, whose death last year gripped national attention, will find out today whether they must enter their defence in court – or be acquitted of child neglect charges.
The decision is expected this morning at the Petaling Jaya sessions court, where proceedings began at 9am before judge Syahliza Warnoh. She will decide whether the prosecution has established a prima facie case, meaning there is sufficient evidence to call the couple to testify. If not, they will walk free.
Zaim Ikhwan Zahari and Ismanira Abdul Manaf, both 30, are jointly accused of neglecting their autistic son in a manner likely to cause him physical harm, between noon on December 5, 2023, and 9.55pm December 6.
Zayn was reported missing on December 5, shortly after being picked up from school by his mother. His body was discovered the next day in a stream about 200 metres from their home at Block R, Idaman Apartment in Damansara Damai.
The couple face charges under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, read with Section 34 of the Penal Code. If convicted, they could face up to 20 years in prison, a fine of RM50,000, or both.
The trial began in February and concluded in April after 20 days of proceedings. The prosecution called 28 witnesses, including Zayn’s caregiver, forensic experts, three investigating officers and two children.
Zaim and Ismanira, who have claimed trial, arrived at the courthouse around 8.15am accompanied by close family members, including Zayn’s grandfather, Mohd Zahari Reba. Zaim appeared to be limping. The pair did not speak to the media.
Security at the courthouse was visibly tight as the corridor leading to the courtroom was cordoned off, and the media barred from entering. Family members were allowed inside but required to surrender their phones and electronic devices before proceedings began, reports said. – July 21, 2025