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SABAH governor has called for special prayers to be held across the state this week for 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir, as he urged a thorough and impartial investigation into the schoolgirl’s death.
Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Dr Musa Aman said a Majlis Tahlil dan Doa will take place on Thursday, 14 August, at Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu, with all mosques and surau in Sabah also holding prayers.
He encouraged Muslims to attend and invited non-Muslims to pray for Zara in their own way.
The Palace conveyed its deepest condolences to Zara’s grieving family, describing her passing as a “tragic loss” felt across the nation.
Tun Musa stressed that the ongoing investigation must be “conducted with the utmost diligence, without fear or favour” and “guided solely in the pursuit of truth and justice.”
He warned against public speculation, unfounded accusations, or conspiracy theories, saying such actions could undermine the investigation and inflict further pain on the family.
“Seeking justice is not vengeance. It is the fulfilment of Allah’s command to protect the weak and punish the wrongdoer,” the statement reads.
The Istana urged the public to allow due process to take its course and to stand in solidarity with the family as they seek answers and closure.
Zara’s body was exhumed earlier this month for a second post-mortem, ordered by the Attorney-General’s Chambers to aid ongoing police investigations. The results have yet to be released.
“May Allah grant Allahyarhamah Zara a place in the gardens of paradise,” the Governor said, adding that the safety and well-being of children “must always remain our highest priority.” - August 12, 2025