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Zayn Rayyan’s Murder: Parents Claim Trial to Child Neglect Charge
PETALING JAYA: Parents of Deceased Autistic Child Plead Not Guilty to Negligence Charges
The parents of Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matiin, an autistic child who was found dead near a stream last year, have been formally charged with child negligence at the Sessions Court. Zaim Ikhwan Zahari and Ismanira Abdul Manaf, both 29, pleaded not guilty when the charges were read out before Sessions Court Judge Dr. Syahliza Warnoh on Thursday, June 13.
Details of the Charges
According to the charge sheet, the couple was jointly charged for neglecting their son, Zayn Rayyan, in a manner likely to cause him physical injury. The alleged offense occurred around Jalan PJU, Damansara Damai, between 12 PM on December 5 and 9:55 PM on December 6 of last year.
The charges fall under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, read together with Section 34 of the Penal Code. If convicted, Zaim and Ismanira face a maximum fine of RM50,000 or up to 20 years in prison, or both.
Court Proceedings
Both parents affirmed their understanding of the charges and entered not guilty pleas. Before the charges were read, Zaim Ikhwan mentioned he was feeling unwell, and Ismanira reported she had vomited and was also unwell.
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Deputy Public Prosecutor Ku Hayati Ku Haron recommended bail at RM15,000 with one surety for each accused. She also requested additional conditions: impoundment of their passports and monthly reporting to the nearest police station.
Defense Arguments
Lawyer Fahmi Abdul Moin, representing Zaim Ikhwan, argued for a lower bail amount, emphasizing the principle of “innocent until proven guilty.” He proposed a bail amount of RM5,000, highlighting the couple’s drastic life changes following their son’s tragic death.
Fahmi recounted the parents’ extensive search efforts that ended with the discovery of Zayn’s body on December 6.
Ismanira’s lawyer, Mahmud Jumaat, supported Fahmi’s mitigation and noted that Ismanira, suffering from severe depression, is currently jobless and caring for another son with severe autism and speech delay.
In response, DPP Ku Hayati highlighted the severity of the charges and the potential consequences of their alleged neglect.
Judge’s Decision
Judge Dr. Syahliza set bail at RM10,000 with one surety for each accused. The additional conditions were upheld, requiring the accused to report to the nearest police station and refrain from harassing prosecution witnesses. No conditions were imposed regarding their passports as they were already expired.
The case is scheduled for mention on July 26.
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