KUALA LUMPUR – Today marks three months since 16-year-old Yap Shing Xuen passed away in a brutal incident at a secondary school in Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya.
Her death has left a deep impact on her mother, Wong Lee Ping, and the family, with this period described as the most difficult time in their lives.
“The past three months have been the most painful time in our lives.
“The grief is overwhelming, it’s hard to put into words. Without her voice and laughter, our home feels so empty and quiet,” Wong told Malay Mail.
On October 14, Yap Shing Xuen was found lifeless in a school bathroom, covered in blood, after being stabbed by a male student from the school’s transition class.
Following the incident, a 14-year-old student was charged in court under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder.
The emptiness, Wong said, is especially felt during special days such as birthdays or the Dongzhi Festival (Winter Solstice), which were once celebrated with joy.
For Wong, moving on does not mean forgetting, though the family needs time to heal.
The family is now learning to live with the pain of losing their daughter while finding the strength to return to their routines.
“We still try to have family time on weekends, but her absence is always felt.
“Special days like birthdays or the Dongzhi Festival, which used to be warm and joyful, now only bring sorrow and longing. We still need time to heal,” she said.
Yap’s tragic death shocked the nation and raised concerns over student safety in places previously considered secure.
For Wong, some comfort comes from recalling her daughter’s smile, watching old family videos, and the constant love and prayers of friends, family, and even strangers.
Wong also said her family lights incense and talks to Yap’s spirit every day while offering her favourite snacks and fruits — small rituals that bring them peace.
The apple of my eye
Wong fondly recalls Yap singing around the house, quietly slipping into her room to give her a hug, and even accompanying Wong on work trips, always eager to help.
“She managed her time well and was active in many things without falling behind in her studies,” Wong said, describing Yap as everything a mother could wish for in a child.
“She was like a ray of sunshine — cheerful, kind, polite, and always smiling.
“She brought happiness to everyone around her. Everyone loved her,” she said.
According to Wong, her daughter also enjoyed sports such as volleyball, badminton, and swimming, loved singing and decorating her room, spent time playing with younger cousins, and often made handmade gifts for the family.
“For birthdays, she would save up and surprise us with cakes and presents. She was a caring and thoughtful child,” she said.
Wong hopes Yap’s story serves as a reminder to society that no child should ever suffer what her daughter went through.
“Honor her by spreading kindness, protecting children, and fighting for justice,” she said.
She also hopes society will pay greater attention to children’s emotional health, as many grow up without love and understanding, leaving lasting emotional scars.
“Spend more time with your children by truly listening to them, not just about their studies, but how they feel inside.
“Emotional support is just as important, if not more, than academic support,” she said.
Wong urged school authorities and the state to review and strengthen existing systems to protect children, stressing that action should not only be taken after tragedies occur.
This includes reassessing the legal framework for handling serious crimes committed by minors, with Wong emphasizing that age should not be used as an excuse for leniency in severe cases.
“Every child deserves a happy and safe childhood,” she said. – 14 January 2026
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