Kota Kinabalu: The inquest into the death of Zara Qairina Mahathir on Friday was postponed to Monday after confidential details relating to a child witness were leaked and circulated on social media.
Coroner Amir Shah Amir Hassan, clearly dismayed, described the leak as a serious disruption that compromised the integrity of the proceedings, which had entered the 10th day.
“This is another reminder to the public that once there is a leak or disruption, it will certainly affect the inquest.
“Now the witnesses feel intimidated because of the irresponsible actions of certain parties. I’m so disappointed but what to do…we will continue on Monday,” he said in open court, Friday.
He said such incidents not only delay justice but also discourage witnesses, particularly minors, from giving evidence without fear.
The coroner was expected to hear testimony from a child witness, referred to as Student A, when the postponement was announced.
Amir instructed counsel Datuk Ram Singh, who represents Student A, to immediately lodge a police report over the breach so that the authorities can take immediate action against those responsible.
Ram confirmed that information relating to his client had already gone viral before it was even presented in the Coroner’s Court.
“We will take the necessary steps and file a police report today,” he said, adding the leak could have far-reaching implications for the safety and well-being of the child witness.
The coroner cautioned the public against spreading unverified information, reminding them that doing so can amount to contempt of court and potentially derail sensitive proceedings.
Ram told the media after the proceedings that he and his team were disappointed over the leakage of documents that had been circulated on social media.
“So much preparation for this witness to testify then the witness statement was leaked. Confidentiality is important.
“My duty is to do necessary to lodge a police report on the witness statement that has been leaked. Of course, not the full one as they take the first two paragraph plus the last paragraph…the last signing page,” he said, adding he will lodge a report on Friday.