Court rejects bid for closed trial in civil suit over Bandar Utama murder

The Kuala Lumpur High Court has refused a young teen's request to conduct a civil trial over the murder of his female schoolmate in complete secrecy. Justice P Anand ruled out the full court hearing in camera, stating there was no justification for such an extreme measure. The boy's identity could be safeguarded without the need for such an extreme step, Anand explained.

The court acknowledged that many child-related cases are heard with protective orders while media can report under certain restrictions. Despite the necessity to protect the child, Anand believed a balanced approach was required, allowing public knowledge of the case and its judgment. The boy's counsel could request in-camera testimony from witnesses in the future if evidence might identify the minor.

Only specific evidence parts would be subject to being heard in camera upon request. The court also instructed that all case documents be sealed from public access. The lawsuit was initiated by Yap Shing Xuen's family, whose 16-year-old son was fatally stabbed by a classmate at a Bandar Utama school last year. The plaintiffs named various government agencies and the accused child and his parents as defendants, claiming the government failed to address mental health issues in schools and parents were responsible for their children's actions.

The initial trial concluded on September 14, with the Shah Alam High Court acquitting the teenager, citing unsoundness of mind at the time of the offense. The Attorney-General's Chambers later filed an appeal against the High Court's decision.