Kundasang: More than a thousand people dressed in black gathered at Pentas Budaya here on Sunday afternoon, braving heavy rain to demand justice for 13-year-old Zara Qairina, whose death last month has sparked national outrage.
The peaceful rally, which began at 1pm, drew local residents, civil society groups, and concerned citizens, united in their call for transparency and accountability in the ongoing investigation.
Chants of “Justice for Zara!” echoed through the downpour as demonstrators stood shoulder-to-shoulder, undeterred by the weather.
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“Zara is not just a name in the news. She was a daughter, a child who played and laughed at home. Now, her mother is left only with questions and a heart full of grief,” he said.
“We cannot remain silent in the face of injustice. We must walk together until the truth is uncovered and justice is served.”
Rally participants held placards with strong messages, including ‘Justice Not Scapegoat’, ‘Say No to Bullying’, and ‘VVIP Status Is Not a License to Bully’. A large banner read: ‘For dear Zara, we will not leave you. Your voice will continue to echo through our unwavering steps until the truth prevails.’
The rally follows heightened public scrutiny over the handling of Zara’s case. The teenager was found unconscious in a drain near her school dormitory in Papar in the early hours of July 16 and later died at Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) in Kota Kinabalu. She had been placed on life support but succumbed to her injuries the next day.
Rally organisers said the event was held not only to express solidarity with Zara’s family, but also to emphasise that accountability must apply to all, regardless of status.
“Justice must be served, no matter who is involved,” one participant said.
“This is not only about Zara. It’s about protecting all children from harm and holding those responsible to account.”