KOTA KINABALU: The legal team representing the mother of the late Zara Qairina Mahathir has cautioned against drawing any preliminary conclusions from ongoing inquest proceedings, particularly from the testimony of psychiatrist Dr Chua Sze Hung.
In a statement issued on Saturday (April 4), the team expressed concern over media reports and social media discussions focusing on Dr Chua’s testimony as the 67th witness and the contents of the autopsy psychiatric report presented at the Coroner’s Court, reported Sinar Harian.
The team stressed that only the Coroner’s Court has jurisdiction to evaluate the entire body of evidence and reach findings based on all testimony and documents submitted throughout the inquest.
“The testimony of any witness, including expert witnesses, as well as the reports submitted, is only part of the overall evidence that has yet to be fully presented and tested before the court,” the statement read.
The lawyers said any early conclusions or interpretations based solely on selected evidence heard so far are “inappropriate” and risk distorting public perception of the proceedings.
They further emphasised that any documents referred to in the psychiatric report – including personal materials such as diaries – do not constitute conclusive evidence at this stage.
“Such documents are still subject to verification through forensic expert testimony. The authenticity, ownership and context of the contents must be determined through a rigorous evidentiary process in court,” they said.
The legal team also noted that several witnesses, including character witnesses who are expected to testify about Zara Qairina herself, have yet to be called.
“Our team will also call psychiatric experts to assist the court in assessing the relevant issues in a more comprehensive and balanced manner, based on all the evidence that will be presented,” the statement added.
The lawyers urged the public to be more cautious when making comments or sharing opinions in public forums, including on social media, about the inquest.
They pointed out that there have already been cases in which public statements or comments have triggered legal action, including investigations, prosecutions, and, in some instances, convictions resulting in fines and heavy sentences. Other cases are still under investigation or before the courts, they noted.
“Therefore, the public is reminded to be more careful when commenting, especially on matters that are currently before the courts, to avoid any unwanted legal implications,” the statement said.
The legal team also reminded the public that Zara Qairina’s mother, Noraidah Lamat, took the initiative to seek justice through the inquest.
“She is following every development with great perseverance to ensure that the truth can be determined by the court,” they said.
They warned that comments that are speculative, insensitive or unfounded are inappropriate and risk adding to the emotional burden borne by Zara’s family.
“All parties are urged to respect the ongoing legal process and to maintain sensitivity towards the late Zara’s family during this period,” the statement continued.
The legal team comprises lawyers Shahlan Jufri, Datuk Rizwandean M. Borhan, Mohd Syarulnizam Mohd Salleh, Mohd Luqman Syazwan Zabidi, Farrah Nasser and Elhanan James.
