Malaysian student injured in London riots

(Bernama) - A Mara-sponsored accountancy student was injured during riots in North London yesterday.

Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal, however, said the Selangor-born student, Asyraf Hazlan, in his 20s, only sustained jaw injury and was currently being treated at the Royal London Hospital.

"The student was not involved in the riots, but was attacked by a group of rioters when trying to get out of a subway train. He was heading to North London to break fast with a friend when the incident occurred.

"He was also beaten and robbed but was later taken to hospital where he would probably undergo a minor surgery," he told reporters after breaking fast with the ministry's staff at the Institute for Rural Advancement (Infra) here today.

Mohd Shafie said Asyraf's family had also been informed about the incident.

The minister said Mara had also taken precautionary measures to relocate its students from the high-risk areas to Leicester Square to ensure their safety.

"They are also advised not to go out aimlessly except to run important errands. Mara Education Director and staff will also monitor the situation there with cooperation from the police," he said.

During the event, Mohd Shafie also presented 'duit raya' and prayer items to 120 orphans and 40 Orang Asli children from Gombak, Selangor.