Vigils across Sabah demand justice for Zara Qairina

KOTA KINABALU (Aug 9): Public vigils were held across multiple districts in Sabah on Friday night, as thousands gathered to demand justice over the tragic death of Form One student Zara Qairina Mahathir.

The gatherings, which drew large crowds in towns including Sandakan, Tawau and Lahad Datu, reflected widespread public outcry amid growing allegations that Zara was the victim of bullying which led to her untimely death.

In Lahad Datu, the mother of Mohd Nazmie Aizzat, a student of Kolej Vokasional Lahad Datu who was murdered by 13 teenagers in a 2022 case, joined the vigil in a show of solidarity.

Speaking to attendees, she tearfully recounted the pain of losing her son, describing how she had sent him to school with hopes for a better future, only for his life to be cut short by fellow students.

“At the very least, those responsible for my son’s death have been brought to justice. But for Zara’s mother, the fight is still ongoing,” she said.

In Sandakan, crowds gathered outside Harbour Mall, where participants chanted “Justice for Zara”. Sandakan Member of Parliament Vivian Wong, who was among those present, said the turnout sent a strong message to the authorities.

“This is about a life lost. The investigation must be thorough and transparent. Right now, the family has no closure. The initial probe appears to have been conducted hastily,” she said.

Over in Tawau, Jalan Chester Night Market became the venue for another emotional vigil, with chants of “Hidup Rakyat” and “Bangkit Rakyat” echoing through the evening air. Merotai assemblyman Sarifuddin Hata also attended the gathering.

Posting on social media, Sarifuddin praised the organisers, Ikatan Anak Muda Tawau, for the peaceful and respectful nature of the event.

“Once again, I attended this vigil not as a politician, but as a concerned member of the public. Let us continue to fight for #JusticeForZara until justice and truth prevail for her and her family,” he wrote on Facebook.

Zara, a student at an Islamic religious secondary school in Papar, was found unconscious after reportedly falling from a dormitory building. She was pronounced dead at Queen Elizabeth I Hospital at 11am on 17 July.

The case went viral on social media following allegations that the incident involved children of prominent individuals, sparking widespread public anger and demands for accountability.

In Papar, a vigil is expected to take place on 10 August at 4pm, at Pantai Manis.

Online, calls for justice continue to grow under the hashtag #JusticeForZara.

-Agency