Govt to let civil suit by school stabbing victim’s family take its course

The government has announced it will permit a civil lawsuit filed by the family of a teenager who was stabbed to death, to progress through the legal system under standard protocols. Deputy Law and Institutional Reform Minister M Kulasegaran made this statement to reporters following an event in Ipoh. However, Kulasegaran declined to provide further details about the case due to lack of complete information.

The government and police will adhere to conventional procedures unless any unexpected circumstances arise, according to Kulasegaran. The minister also mentioned that the government is currently drafting new legislation to incorporate mental health aspects into existing laws. He emphasized that discussions are underway with relevant agencies and non-governmental organizations to ensure proper consideration of mental health issues, particularly among young individuals.

Additionally, Kulasegaran highlighted the importance of assisting parents in understanding their children's needs, including those related to mental health. On September 14, the Shah Alam High Court acquitted the 15-year-old boy charged with fatally stabbing his 15-year-old classmate at Bandar Utama School in 2025, citing that he was not of sound mind at the time of the incident.

The judge, however, ordered the boy to be detained at the discretion of the Sultan of Selangor at Hospital Bahagia Ulu Kinta in Perak for treatment. On September 24, the Attorney-General's Chambers filed an appeal notice against the High Court's decision. The 15-year-old boy was accused of fatally stabbing the Form 4 student in the girls' restroom of their school on October 14, 2024.