Zayn’s younger brother back in father’s care after 18 months

Under court orders, Zaim Ikhwan Zahari must allow visits by welfare officers to check on the wellbeing of the child, who is also autistic.

The younger brother of the late Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matin had been with his grand-aunt since May 9 last year. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA:

 The younger brother of the late Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matin has returned to the care of his father, Zaim Ikhwan Zahari, after 18 months with his grand-aunt.

Selangor welfare department director Azmir Kasim said the Shah Alam magistrates’ court made the decision today, and set several conditions for Zaim to regain custody of his son.

Azmir said among the conditions imposed on Zaim includes allowing welfare officers to visit the six-year-old child from time to time to check on his well-being, Harian Metro reported.

Zayn’s brother, who is also autistic, had been with his grand-aunt since May 9 last year.

Zaim and his wife, Ismanira Abdul Manaf, were charged with neglecting Zayn in a manner likely to cause him physical harm.

The father was acquitted in July after the court found that the prosecution failed to prove a prima facie case, but his wife was convicted last month.

Ismanira was sentenced to five years in prison while her application to stay the execution of the sentence was rejected.

Zayn was reported missing in Damansara Damai on Dec 5, 2023, and was found dead the next day. He is believed to have been strangled, and the autopsy revealed multiple injuries, including defensive wounds. - FMT