Zara Qairina’s mother weeps during identification, lawyer denies fundraising claims

NORAIDAH Lamat, the mother of the late Zara Qairina Mahathir, was overcome with emotion as she identified her only child prior to the post-mortem examination at the Forensic Department of Queen Elizabeth I Hospital.

Her lawyer, Hamid Ismail, shared the sombre scene with reporters, stating that Noraidah shed tears during the identification process but remained composed.

“The post-mortem is still underway, and we are awaiting the results. It is taking time, and we must be patient,” he said on Sunday.

“We are not allowed inside to determine which stage the procedure is at, but our legal team member Shahlan Jufri is present in the room. It is a deeply sorrowful atmosphere. The mother was visibly upset — she cried during the identification — but she is strong,” Hamid added.

Addressing growing misinformation circulating online, Hamid took the opportunity to clarify two key points.

“Firstly, there’s a video circulating on TikTok of a woman screaming — I want to make it clear, that is not Zara’s mother. Please do not spread slander. We don’t want false accusations being directed at innocent people,” he said.

He also urged the public to show empathy. “Please support Zara’s mother. She is emotionally distressed at this moment. I hope people will understand and respect her situation.”

Hamid further dispelled claims about crowdfunding efforts allegedly organised to cover legal fees.

“I’ve just been informed that a TikTok post is soliciting donations for our legal services. I want to make it clear that we have not launched any fundraising — this case is being handled pro bono,” he stated.

“Any party claiming to collect money for legal representation in this matter is not telling the truth. Those donation drives are false.”

Zara Qairina, a 13-year-old student, passed away on 17 July after being found unconscious at her school, prompting a renewed investigation and exhumation of her remains for a second autopsy. - August 10, 2025