A 16-year-old girl was found dead in a school hall in Yong Peng, Johor, on Saturday, 3 October, in a case now being investigated as murder.
Three male students, also aged 16, have been arrested in connection with the case, according to Malaysian media reports carried by CNA and The Straits Times.
One of the suspects has been remanded for six days until 9 October to assist with investigations.
Girl Found Unconscious in School Hall
Johor police said they received information about the incident at about 5.50pm on Saturday.
The girl was found unconscious and injured in the hall of a secondary school in Yong Peng. Bernama, citing Johor police chief Ab Rahaman Arsad, reported that she had injuries to her head and body and was pronounced dead at the scene.
An autopsy was conducted on Sunday at Sultanah Nora Ismail Hospital in Batu Pahat.
The case is being investigated under Section 302 of Malaysia’s Penal Code, which covers murder.
3 Schoolmates Arrested
According to reports, police arrested three 16-year-old male students, who are believed to be from the same school as the girl.
Bernama’s later police report said one 16-year-old male suspect was arrested at about 7pm on Saturday in the Yong Peng area, about an hour after police were alerted to the incident.
That suspect was brought to the Batu Pahat Magistrate’s Court, where a six-day remand order was granted.
CNA reported that the status of the other two suspects was unclear as of Sunday.
Police said the remanded suspect had no previous criminal record. Investigators also seized items including a mobile phone, clothes and slippers.
At this stage, police have not announced a motive. They have also urged the public not to speculate or spread comments that could affect investigations.
Anwar Calls for Thorough Probe
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for an immediate, thorough and transparent investigation into the girl’s death.
In a Facebook post reported by Bernama and CNA, he extended his condolences to the family and said firm action should be taken under the law if criminal elements were found.
He also said children’s safety was a shared responsibility, and that the government would not compromise on their safety and wellbeing.
Malaysia’s Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek has also ordered a review of school management and security following the case.
Bernama reported that the review would include matters such as attendance during extra classes, school security and patrols. Fadhlina said action would be taken if there was negligence or failure to carry out responsibilities properly.
As investigations are still ongoing and the suspects are minors, the reported facts should be treated as allegations unless established in court.
