KOTA KINABALU: The Coroner’s Court heard that some students did not like 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir because she kept a list of those who skipped congregational prayers.
A Form One student, identified as Child Witness 7, described Zara Qairina as otherwise cheerful and talkative, often greeting others and making friends easily.
She had also once shared her ambition of becoming a badar (religious prefect).
"Child Witness 7, who is the 15th deponent, said some students did not like the late Zara Qairina because she wrote down the names of those who did not attend prayers," said Rizwandean M Borhan, counsel for the deceased’s mother, Noraidah Lamat.
The witness also recounted the night of July 15, when Zara Qairina came to her dormitory room at about 10.20pm to meet a senior.
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"She entered politely, gave salam and asked permission to come in, then sat cross-legged on the floor near a locker," said the witness, adding that Zara Qairina looked scared.
"Soon after, four seniors walked in. One shouted at Zara Qairina and the witness heard the word sial (damned), while another scolded her lightly.
"The witness described the atmosphere as garang (fierce) and said no one dared intervene while Zara Qairina cried," Rizwandean said.
A Malaysia flag pin belonging to another student was later found in Zara Qairina’s locker.
This pin is believed to have triggered the confrontation.
The inquest resumes on Oct 7.
