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THE trial of the parents of autistic child Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matin resumed today in the Sessions Court, with two child witnesses completing their testimony in a closed-door session.
The witnesses, aged 10, were questioned regarding the alleged neglect and physical harm inflicted on Zayn Rayyan by his parents, Bernama reported.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Kamarul Iman Ahmad Sapian confirmed that the two child witnesses, who are the 14th and 15th witnesses in the prosecution's case, concluded their statements in front of Judge Dr. Syahliza Warnoh.
Their testimony began on February 18, 2025, and continued today, including cross-examination by the defense and further examination by the prosecution.
So far, 20 prosecution witnesses, including the two child witnesses, have given their accounts in the trial. During today’s session, one of the child witnesses also identified Zayn Rayyan's mother, Ismanira Abdul Manaf, and confirmed seeing the child for the last time on December 5, 2023.
The trial is being overseen by Deputy Public Prosecutors Raja Zaizul Faridah Raja Zaharudin and Aqharie Durranie Aziz, while defense attorneys Haresh Mahadevan and Ramzani Idris represent the accused parents. The proceedings are set to resume on March 11, 2025.
On February 17, 2025, the court granted the prosecution's request for the child witnesses’ testimony to be conducted in a closed session, with only approved adults present and the media excluded from the courtroom.
The case involves Zaim Ikhwan Zahari and Ismanira Abdul Manaf, aged 30, who have pleaded not guilty to charges of neglecting their six-year-old autistic son, Zayn Rayyan, potentially causing him physical harm.
The incident allegedly occurred between December 5 and 6, 2023, in the Damansara Damai area. If convicted, the couple faces a fine of up to RM50,000 or up to 20 years in prison, or both, under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001.
Zayn Rayyan’s lifeless body was found on December 6, 2023, in a stream near their residence at Apartment Idaman, Damansara Damai, a day after he was reported missing.
The autopsy revealed injuries on his neck and body, suggesting he may have been killed while attempting to defend himself. – February 21, 2025