KOTA KINABALU — Lawyers in the bullying case involving 13-year-old student Zara Qairina Mahathir today confirmed that a gag order remains in place, limiting public discussion of the proceedings.Zara was found unconscious at her boarding school dormitory in Papar on July 16. Police initially classified the case as sudden death, but an inquest was ordered following public pressure and questions raised by her family.

On August 5, the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) charged five of Zara’s schoolmates with using abusive words against her the night before she was found.

The gag order was sought by lawyers for the accused students on Aug 20, who cited concerns about ensuring a fair trial free from prejudice.