Cover image via 
Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.
Five teenage girls are set to face charges at the Kota Kinabalu Children's Court today, 20 August, in connection with the bullying of Zara Qairina Mahathir
According to Bernama, the five minors will be charged under Section 507C(1) of the Penal Code, which relates to the offence of using threatening, abusive, or insulting words or communication.
All five arrived at court this morning at 8.25am in a van escorted by police.
Authorities said the teenagers' identities will remain confidential despite facing charges in court
In a statement on Tuesday, 19 August, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reforms) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said that while bullying — whether in schools or online — is never acceptable, the accused are still considered children under the law and must be safeguarded under the Child Act 2001.
"This includes confidentiality, the right to legal representation, and fair treatment," she said.
The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) reminded the public that disclosing any information that could identify the children involved is an offence under Section 15 of the Child Act 2001, punishable by a fine of up to RM10,000, five years' imprisonment, or both.
It also said proceedings at the Children's Court are being held behind closed doors under Section 12 of the same Act.
"Only parties directly involved in the case are allowed to attend. The privacy of the children must be respected," it said.
In a separate update, Zara Qairina's family had yesterday urged the Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) to press heavier charges against the accused under a different provision that carries stiffer penalties
According to the New Straits Times, the family's lawyers said Section 507D(2), which applies when someone is made to believe they will be harmed, should be used instead.
Under this section, if the victim dies by suicide due to such provocation, offenders can face up to 10 years in prison, a fine, or both.
In contrast, Section 507C(1), which the teens are currently charged under, only carries a maximum of one year's imprisonment, a fine, or both for only the harassment.
