Malaysian boy on trial for allegedly murdering girl in school
The high-profile case has shocked Malaysia and sparked debate about the effect of social media on children.
A Malaysian teenager faces trial for the alleged murder of a 16-year-old classmate last October. The incident occurred in a school toilet on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital. The accused, then 14, has maintained his innocence. If found guilty, he could serve decades in prison and potentially face corporal punishment.
Police have speculated that social media may have played a role in the crime. A note was discovered on the boy at the time of his arrest, fueling discussions about the impact of social media. Under Malaysia's legal system, the minor cannot be identified publicly. His age exempts him from the death penalty, but he could still face significant jail time and flogging.
The age of criminal responsibility in Malaysia is 10. The case has sparked nationwide debate about the detrimental effects of social media on children, especially its exposure to radical ideologies. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim suggested that mobile phones and social media are often the root cause of such violent incidents. In response, authorities have imposed new regulations, prohibiting children under 16 from using major social media platforms since June.
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