Zayn’s father, Zaim Ikhwan Zahari, and mother, Ismanira Abdul Manaf, pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to them before judge Syahliza Warnoh.
The charge was framed under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, read with Section 34 of the Penal Code.
If found guilty, Zayn’s parents could each face a fine of not more than RM50,000, imprisonment of up to 20 years, or both.
The offence allegedly took place at Jalan PJU 10/1, Damansara Damai, between 12pm on Dec 5, 2023, and 9.55pm the following day.
Syahliza allowed the couple bail of RM10,000 each with one surety. They were also ordered to report to the police station near their home once a month until the disposal of the case.
The judge imposed a gag order on all parties involved to bar them from posting about the case.
The court also fixed July 26 for mention.
Deputy public prosecutors Ku Hayati Ku Haron and Ahmad Zuhaini Mahamad Amin prosecuted while lawyers Fahmi Moin and Mahmud Jumaat represented Zaim and Ismanira respectively.
Zayn was reported missing in Damansara Damai on Dec 5 last year. He was found dead the next day.
The post-mortem revealed multiple injuries, including defensive wounds, while the cause of death was believed to be strangulation.
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