KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, August 18, 2025 – In his ongoing effort to address public concerns surrounding the tragic death of young Zara Qairina Mahathir, Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail released the fourth part of his ministerial briefing series on TikTok yesterday. Titled “Sesi Penerangan Menteri | Isu Adik Zara Qairina (Bahagian 4),” the video forms part of a multi-part explanation aimed at clarifying facts amid swirling rumors and misinformation.
The case, which has gripped the nation, involves the death of 13-year-old Zara Qairina, whose passing has been linked to elements of bullying, neglect, and sexual harassment based on a thorough police probe.
Investigations by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) have included statements from 195 witnesses and the discovery of Zara’s personal diary, which provides poignant insights into her mental state and experiences. Saifuddin emphasized in related parliamentary discussions that the inquiry has been transparent, with no cover-ups, and that several suspects connected to the case are set to face charges soon.
Debunking baseless claims has been a key theme in the minister’s updates. For instance, an English teacher was recently detained for posting a misleading TikTok video alleging Zara was murdered by being placed in a washing machine – a fabrication Saifuddin dismissed as content-driven sensationalism rather than fact. “Justice for Zara Qairina must be based on facts, not baseless claims,” Saifuddin stated, urging the public to await official findings.
In the fifth and latest briefing, released later on August 18, Saifuddin announced that an inquest into Zara’s death will commence in early September, providing a formal platform for all evidence to be presented. He clarified that agreements regarding the autopsy do not imply blame on Zara’s mother and affirmed that internal police lapses are under scrutiny, with no defenses from the Home Ministry or PDRM. This step underscores the government’s commitment to openness and fairness under the #MalaysiaMADANI initiative.
As the inquest approaches, authorities have submitted 21 investigation papers to the Attorney General’s Chambers, paving the way for potential bullying-related prosecutions.
Saifuddin, also the secretary-general of Pakatan Harapan, reiterated that the process prioritizes justice for the “lost soul” and her family, amid calls for accountability in schools and online spaces. The case continues to highlight broader issues of youth mental health and cyberbullying in Malaysia.