PETALING JAYA – The Petaling Jaya Magistrate's Court once again became the media's focus today as the trial of Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matiin’s parents resumed.
The court's premises were bustling with members of the media who began gathering as early as 8.30am to follow the latest developments in the case.
Security personnel were also seen stationed at the main entrance of the court complex to maintain order.
On June 13, Zayn Rayyan's parents, Zaim Ikhwan Zahari and Ismanira Abdul Manaf, pleaded not guilty to charges of neglecting their son, Zayn Rayyan.
The offence was allegedly committed around Jalan PJU 10/1, Damansara Damai, between 12pm on December 5 and 9.55pm on December 6.
The charges were brought under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001 and are punishable under Section 31(1) of the same Act, read together with Section 34 of the Penal Code.
If found guilty, the couple faces a maximum fine of RM50,000, imprisonment of up to 20 years, or both.
On December 6, 2023, Zayn Rayyan was found dead in a stream near Idaman Apartments, Damansara Damai, at around 10pm.
The child had been reported missing earlier, and his body was discovered approximately 200 metres from his residence.
Police confirmed the boy was murdered after a post-mortem examination revealed injuries to his neck and body linked to criminal actions.
Following this, the parents were arrested on May 31 and remanded for 13 days starting June 1 to facilitate the investigation.