Zayn Rayyan case: Sept. 28 set for Ismanira’s appeal decision

KUALA LUMPUR, 20 AUGUST 2026 —

Zayn Rayyan case: High Court to decide on Ismanira’s appeal on Sept 28

Judge Noor Hisham Ismail fixed the date after hearing submissions from both the defence and prosecution during a hearing on Wednesday. The prosecution also filed a cross-appeal against the sentence imposed on Ismanira, 31.

“I need some time, so the court has fixed Sept 28 for the decision,” the judge said, noting that the proceedings were attended by Ismanira’s legal team, including counsel Haresh Mahadevan, Lavanesh Haresh, Tiara Katirina Fuad, and Haijan Omar. The prosecution was represented by deputy public prosecutors Ahmad Iqbal Azman, Kamarul Iman Ahmad Sapian, Aqharie Durranie Aziz, and Raja Zaizul Faridah Raja Zaharudin.

During the hearing, defence lawyer Lavanesh argued that the five-year sentence was excessive, comparing it to penalties for more serious offences. He contended that the neglect lasted only “60 seconds” and suggested that a fine would be more appropriate.

“Five years is extremely excessive, comparing it to cases of grievous serious offences. This was 60 seconds of neglect. I would strongly pray that a fine would be more than adequate,” Lavanesh said. He also noted that Ismanira had already served 10 months in prison and requested that this period be considered if a fine were imposed instead.

The defence further argued that the Sessions Court had erred in finding that Zayn Rayyan’s injuries were caused by Ismanira allowing him to walk behind her. The appeal petition stated that the court had incorrectly relied on the conclusion of senior investigating officer SP28, who characterised Ismanira’s actions as neglect.

“The appellant respectfully submits that this was not evidence of neglect. It was SP28’s conclusion based on the fact that the deceased had disappeared,” the petition read.

In contrast, the prosecution maintained that the five-year sentence was justified and argued for a heavier punishment to serve as a deterrent. Deputy public prosecutor Raja Zaizul Faridah submitted that the sentence should prioritise deterrence rather than mitigating factors such as the relationship between the appellant and the victim.

“We do not want a similar scenario to become a precedent in future cases where the perpetrator is someone who cares for the victim or is close to them, such as a parent, and a lenient sentence is imposed on mitigating grounds,” she said.

The appeal was filed by the defence on Jan 5 through Messrs Haresh Mahadevan & Co, challenging both the conviction and the entirety of the decision delivered by Petaling Jaya Sessions Court Judge Dr Syahliza Warnoh on Oct 31 last year.

Earlier, on Dec 23, 2025, the Shah Alam High Court dismissed Ismanira’s application to stay the five-year sentence pending her appeal. Judge Datuk Aslam Zainuddin ruled that there were no special circumstances warranting a stay of execution. Ismanira was also ordered to perform 120 hours of community service within six months of completing her prison term.

Ismanira was charged under Section 31(1)(a) of the Children Act 2001, read together with Section 34 of the Penal Code, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both.

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Outlook The High Court’s decision on Sept 28 will determine whether Ismanira’s conviction and sentence are upheld or overturned. Legal observers note that the case has drawn significant public attention, with potential implications for future sentencing in cases involving child neglect.