DAP Sabah Demands Full Disclosure Over SOP Breach in Zara’s Death Investigation

14 August 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Democratic Action Party (DAP) Chairman, Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, has called on the police to conduct a full, transparent, and thorough investigation into the breach of Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) by the Investigating Officer (IO) in the tragic case of Zara's fatal fall. He further urged that the findings be promptly disclosed to both the family and the public.

Phoong highlighted that, based on the police statement issued yesterday, Zara’s mother had signed a declaration waiving the post-mortem examination at the time of the incident.

However, it was also acknowledged that the investigating personnel failed to comply with SOP by not adequately explaining the critical role of a post-mortem in establishing the cause of death, nor submitting an application to the hospital for the procedure.

“The police statement has, on one hand, clarified some public concerns and helped to curb rumours and speculation. But on the other hand, it also clearly exposes procedural failures. These failures must be addressed urgently to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future,” Phoong said.

He stressed the importance of understanding the emotional and psychological state of a grieving parent. In the immediate aftermath of such a traumatic loss, he explained, it would be unreasonable to expect rational decision-making from a mother who has just lost her child.

“Zara’s mother’s decision to decline a post-mortem at that time should be viewed through a lens of compassion. It was a natural reaction in the face of overwhelming grief. The real question is, why didn’t the officers present act according to SOP by providing the necessary guidance and explanation?”

Phoong questioned whether Zara’s mother fully understood the implications of signing the declaration and whether the explanation provided by the officers was sufficient. If she was not made aware of the significance of a post-mortem, he said, this would represent a serious dereliction of duty by the IO.

Furthermore, he warned of the possible influence of external or internal pressure that could have caused the investigating officer to neglect the proper procedures.

“If it is found that any party knowingly concealed, delayed, or avoided the correct process, then regardless of their position, they must face serious legal consequences. If not, public confidence in our police force will continue to erode,” he said.

Phoong reiterated that DAP Sabah would continue monitoring the case closely and support all peaceful public actions taken in solidarity with Zara and her family in pursuit of justice.

He disclosed that on 12 August, a DAP Sabah delegation led by himself attended a candlelight vigil held in memory of Zara despite heavy rain. He described the gesture as a symbol of compassion and solidarity with the bereaved family.

“This is not just a school tragedy , it is a national call for justice. We must come together to support Zara’s family and ensure that their voices are heard. DAP Sabah will also be attending the peaceful gathering scheduled for the evening of 15 August at Padang Merdeka, Kota Kinabalu, to demand the truth and accountability from the authorities.”

He concluded by stating that the case has now gone beyond school safety concerns and become a litmus test for the integrity of Malaysia’s law enforcement and judicial system.

“The police must uncover the truth through a transparent and accountable process. Only then can public trust be rebuilt and future tragedies prevented.”