Shah Alam: The trial of Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matin's parents, who are accused of neglecting their six-year-old son in a manner likely to cause physical harm, is scheduled to commence on February 3 at the Sessions Court in Shah Alam. Judge Dr. Syahliza Warnoh confirmed the trial dates after dismissing an application by the defense to vacate the scheduled sessions in February and March. The defense had sought to delay the trial pending a decision on a motion to dismiss the charges at the Shah Alam High Court.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the defense lawyer, Haresh Mahadevan, representing Zaim Ikhwan Zahari and his wife Ismanira Abdul Manaf, argued that proceeding with the trial could prejudice his clients. Nonetheless, Judge Syahliza decided to continue with the trial as the motion had yet to be addressed by the high court. The court has set trial dates for February 3 to 7, February 17 to 21, and March 10 to 14.

The notice of motion filed by the couple's legal team seeks their immediate discharge and acquittal, claiming that the charges do not sufficiently outline an offense under Section 31 of the Child Act 2001. The couple argues that the charges lack the necessary details to establish the elements of the alleged crime.

Both Zaim Ikhwan and Ismanira, aged 30, pleaded not guilty on June 13 of the previous year. They are accused of neglecting their autistic son between December 5 and December 6, 2023, along PJU Damansara Damai, in a manner that could cause physical harm. Under the Children Act 2001, the charge carries a maximum penalty of a RM50,000 fine, a jail term of up to 20 years, or both, if convicted.

Tragically, on December 6, 2023, the body of Zayn Rayyan was discovered in a stream near his home at Idaman Apartment, Damansara Damai, after being reported missing the previous day.