KUCHING, June 15 — The Social Welfare Department (JKM) is identifying suitable guardians for Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matin’s younger sibling.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the court has granted a temporary guardianship order for Zayn Rayyan’s younger brother until August 9.
“It is understood the sibling is nonverbal, necessitating specialised observation and care under JKM’s guardianship. Our approach focuses on acknowledging his unique character rather than defining him solely by autism,” she said after launching the Autism Empowerment Weekend 2024 hosted by Let’z Play Therapy Centre here today.
Nancy said JKM must be cautious in identifying caregivers suitable for children with autism.
“The qualified and suitable candidate will undergo a two-week trial to assess compatibility before final approval. Monitoring will be conducted periodically,” she said.
Yesterday, Selangor JKM director Azmir Kassim said the brother of the late Zayn Rayyan was under JKM’s temporary guardianship, following a court order from the Shah Alam Magistrate’s Court.
He said custodianship of the child was conveyed to his parents — Ismanira Abdul Manaf and Zaim Ikhwan Zahari.
Zaim Ikhwan and Ismanira pleaded not guilty to child neglect and causing physical harm.
The charges were filed under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, which carries penalties outlined in Section 34 of the same code — a maximum fine of RM50,000, up to 20 years’ imprisonment, or both, upon conviction.
Zayn Rayyan, a child with autism, went missing from his home at Apartment Idaman, Damansara Damai, on December 5 and was found dead the next day.
— Bernama
