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POLICE are investigating whether video games and social media platforms may have influenced a 14-year-old boy who fatally stabbed a female classmate at a secondary school in Bandar Utama earlier this week.
Selangor Police Chief, Datuk Shazeli Kahar, confirmed that digital content and online behaviour are now key angles in the ongoing investigation.
“Previously, I mentioned that the suspect may have been influenced by social media. Social media is a vast space, so allow us time to determine which platforms truly had an impact,” he told reporters on Thursday during a walkabout with entrepreneurs in Little India, Klang, in conjunction with Deepavali celebrations.
He added, “We also do not rule out the possibility that video games played a role in motivating the suspect’s actions.”
According to Shazeli, police are examining all possible motives and external influences, including the suspect's preparations prior to the attack.
“The fact that the suspect wore gloves before the incident suggests a degree of planning,” he said.
As part of the investigation, statements have been recorded from 59 individuals so far, including teachers, family members of both the suspect and victim, as well as two of the suspect’s friends.
The murder, which occurred around 9.30am on Tuesday, left the local community shocked. The victim, a 16-year-old girl, died after being stabbed by the suspect on school grounds.
Learning Difficulties, Not Mental Illness
In response to public speculation, Shazeli firmly rejected claims that the school had prior knowledge of any mental health issues involving the suspect.
“The suspect had undergone counselling to improve his learning methods, not for mental or personality disorders,” he said.
“Allegations that the school ignored warning signs of the suspect’s mental health are simply untrue,” he added.
While confirming that the boy did not present outward signs of mental instability, Shazeli said it would be inappropriate for police to make psychiatric assessments.
“It’s not fair for me to comment on his mental condition because we are not psychiatric experts. Physically, he appears fine — that is all I can say,” he noted.
The suspect is believed to have experienced learning challenges but had been receiving support through a remedial counselling programme, rather than for any diagnosed psychological disorder.
‘Zero Day’ Note Sparks Concern
The case has drawn further attention after a handwritten note, allegedly written by the suspect, went viral on social media.
The note contained phrases such as “Zero Day” and “NPC (Non-Player Character),” commonly used terms in online gaming culture, prompting further scrutiny into the role of gaming in the boy’s mindset.
Shazeli said police are examining the note and its possible connection to the suspect’s state of mind and intentions.
Investigators are expected to provide a full report to the Attorney-General’s Chambers once the case file is complete.
“The aim is to ensure our investigation is conclusive and to provide strong grounds for the Public Prosecutor to act,” Shazeli said.
The case has renewed calls for greater monitoring of student mental health, digital exposure, and safety in schools. - October 16, 2025
