The death of Zara Qairina Mahathir, a Form One student, has shocked Malaysians nationwide especially after her body was exhumed 23 days after being laid to rest in Sipitang.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what happened, how the case has unfolded, and the latest developments.
1. July 16, 2025 — Found unconscious near dormitory
It all began when Zara was discovered unconscious in a drain near the dormitory of a religious school in Papar, Sabah.
The circumstances surrounding how she ended up there remain unclear, with conflicting accounts; some claiming she fell, others suggesting she was pushed, and some pointing to possible bullying.
She was rushed to Queen Elizabeth I Hospital in Kota Kinabalu for emergency treatment.
2. July 17, 2025 — Declared dead
Tragically, doctors confirmed her death the very next day.
Her sudden passing sparked immediate concern in the local community, as questions about what truly happened to her began to circulate.
3. August 8, 2025 — Attorney-General orders exhumation
Nearly three weeks later, the Attorney-General’s Chambers reviewed the police’s preliminary investigation report and found further evidence was needed.
One of the key directives was to exhume Zara’s remains so a full post-mortem examination could be carried out.
The complete preliminary investigation report has been returned to PDRM along with several instructions, including the need to exhume Zara Qairina’s body,” the statement read.
4. August 9, 2025 — Body exhumed & forensic expert flown in
The following day, Zara’s remains were exhumed from Tanjung Ubi Muslim Cemetery in Kampung Mesapol, Sipitang.
To ensure transparency and credibility, a forensic pathology expert from Sultan Idris Shah Hospital in Serdang, Selangor, was brought in to assist local doctors.
The autopsy, lasting around eight hours was conducted in the presence of one of the family’s lawyers, underscoring the seriousness and sensitivity of the case.
5. Leaders call for a transparent investigation
As news of the exhumation spread, national leaders weighed in.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed that the investigation must proceed without fear or favour:
Some say she fell, some say she was pushed, some say it was due to bullying. We will not take this lightly and we do not want it to be politicised. My directive is clear: there will be no compromise, no matter whose child it is, whether a minister’s or anyone else’s.”
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution pledged that the police would provide regular updates and uphold justice for all parties involved, while Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil reminded the public not to spread unverified claims or engage in online vigilantism.
6. Police and family address rumours
In the wake of intense online speculation, Bukit Aman issued a warning against sharing false photos or unfounded claims, noting that such actions could hinder the investigation and lead to legal consequences.
The family’s lawyer also addressed viral misinformation clarifying that they had not raised RM2 million in legal fees and were being represented pro bono.
They urged the public to stop circulating deeply hurtful rumours, including unverified allegations that Zara had been placed in a washing machine, calling them both damaging and potentially illegal under the Child Act and Communications and Multimedia Act.
7. Nationwide outcry and solidarity
The case has sparked outrage and heartbreak across Malaysia.
In Labuan, more than 3,000 people dressed in black joined a peaceful rally demanding justice for Zara and an end to bullying. The gathering brought together people from all walks of life, united in their call for truth.
8. August 10, 2025 — Laid to rest again
After the post-mortem concluded at around 8pm, Zara’s body was released from the hospital’s Forensic Medicine Department at about 9.30pm.
Later that night, she was reburied at the Tanjung Ubi Muslim Cemetery in Kampung Mesapol, Sipitang, where family members, friends, and community members once again gathered to bid their final farewell.
