Teen Charged Over Fatal Toilet Stabbing
A 15-year-old student in Malaysia has pleaded not guilty to the murder of his 16-year-old schoolmate in a case that has shocked communities across the region. The incident allegedly took place in October last year at a secondary school in Selangor.
The victim, identified as Yap Shing Xuen, was reportedly stabbed inside the girls’ toilet at SMK Bandar Utama Damansara (4) in Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya. Court documents state that the attack occurred between 9.20am and 9.35am during school hours.
Due to his age, the accused cannot be publicly named under Malaysian law. He was brought before Malaysia’s High Court from the Puncak Alam Correction Centre, a detention facility for juveniles, where he has been held pending trial.
Court Proceedings And Possible Penalties
The charge was read to the teenager in Mandarin, after which he indicated that he wished to contest the allegation in court. According to reports, there were no changes to the original charge sheet that had previously been presented at the magistrate’s court.
If convicted, the teen could face the death penalty. Alternatively, he may be sentenced to a prison term of not less than 30 years and not more than 40 years, along with 12 strokes of the rotan. The severity of the possible punishment reflects Malaysia’s strict stance on violent crime, even in cases involving minors.
His defence lawyer told the media that the boy “appeared calm” throughout the hearing. He reportedly walked to the microphone to confirm that he intended to stand trial and was said to understand the proceedings taking place.
Psychiatric Treatment And Upcoming Trial
The defence further revealed that the teenager is currently undergoing monthly psychiatric treatment and is said to be showing positive progress. No further details about his medical condition were disclosed in court.
The trial is scheduled to begin in July and is expected to run for two consecutive weeks. The case continues to draw attention given the young ages of both the accused and the victim, as well as the fact that the alleged attack occurred within school premises.
Community Shock And Wider Concerns
The tragedy has reignited discussions about student safety, mental health awareness and violence among youths. Schools are typically regarded as safe spaces for learning and development, making incidents of this nature particularly distressing for parents and educators.
As the legal process unfolds, both families now face a lengthy court battle. The outcome of the July trial will determine the next chapter in a case that has deeply unsettled the local community and drawn concern from neighbouring countries, including Singapore.