Autistic Boy’s School Assistant Testifies in Court
A witness in the trial of Zaim Ikhwan Zahari and his wife Ismanira, who are charged with neglecting their six-year-old autistic son Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matin, testified that the late child was well-behaved and not prone to tantrums.
Nasimah Abu Bakar’s Testimony
Nasimah Abu Bakar, a 33-year-old student management assistant at Zayn Rayyan’s school, said that the child was a good boy who was obedient and did not cause many problems. She testified that Zayn was passive and not the hyperactive type, and that he did not throw tantrums often.
Disappearance of Zayn Rayyan
Recounting Zayn Rayyan’s disappearance on December 5, 2023, Nasimah said that she first learned about it from a WhatsApp group for his class between 4 pm and 4:30 pm. She then called Zayn Rayyan’s mother, Ismanira, at 5 pm to confirm the matter.
Conversation with Ismanira
Nasimah said that Ismanira told her that Zayn had run off quickly and then disappeared. When asked if Zayn had ever run away before, Ismanira replied that he had once gone missing at Taman Metropolitan, Kepong.
Disposable Diaper
When questioned about the disposable diaper that Zayn Rayyan was wearing on December 5, Nasimah said that she did not change it because it was not soiled or full. Aqharie Durranie, the deputy public prosecutor, asked if Zayn went home wearing the same diaper, to which Nasimah replied, "Yes, that’s correct."
Trial Continues
The trial will resume on February 17. Zaim Ikhwan and Ismanira, both 30, pleaded not guilty to a charge of neglecting their son in a manner likely to cause him physical injury at a location around PJU Damansara Damai here, between noon on December 5 and 9:55 pm on December 6, 2023.
Background
Zayn Rayyan’s body was found in a stream near his home at Apartment Idaman, Damansara Damai, after he was reported missing on December 5, 2023. The child was believed to have been murdered, as the post-mortem examination revealed injuries on his neck and body to be consistent with defensive wounds.
Conclusion
The trial of Zaim Ikhwan and Ismanira is ongoing, and it remains to be seen what evidence will be presented to prove or disprove the charges against them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the charge against Zaim Ikhwan and Ismanira?
A: They are charged with neglecting their six-year-old autistic son in a manner likely to cause him physical injury.
Q: What was Zayn Rayyan’s behavior like according to Nasimah Abu Bakar?
A: Zayn was a well-behaved child who was obedient and did not cause many problems. He was also not prone to tantrums.
Q: When did Zayn Rayyan go missing?
A: Zayn Rayyan went missing on December 5, 2023.
Q: What was found at the scene of Zayn Rayyan’s body?
A: The post-mortem examination revealed injuries on Zayn Rayyan’s neck and body to be consistent with defensive wounds.