14-year-old student dies at Kuala Pilah hostel, police investigate case as murder

KUALA PILAH: Police have opened an investigation under Section 302 of the Penal Code into the death of a 14-year-old boy who was found unconscious in the hostel of a boarding school here last night.

A 16-year-old male student has been detained to assist investigations. The detention does not mean the student is guilty, and no charges have been filed so far.

According to Negeri Sembilan police chief Datuk Alzafny Ahmad, the incident occurred at about 8pm. The Form Two student was taken to Hospital Tuanku Ampuan Najihah in Kuala Pilah, where he was pronounced dead.

"We are examining all facts and evidence to determine the actual cause and motive of the incident," he said, as reported by RTM.

He also urged the public not to speculate or spread unverified information, as it could jeopardise the investigation and the privacy of the victim's family.

Immediate audit at the school

Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek has directed the Schools Inspectorate to carry out an immediate audit of safety and procedural compliance at the school.

"No party will be protected if misconduct or a breach of the law is found," she said.

Appropriate action would be taken based on the findings of the investigation and the law, she said. The ministry is also providing counselling and psychosocial support to the victim's family and the school community.

Malay Mail reported that bullying allegations had also surfaced over the incident. The allegations have not been confirmed by police, and the cause of death remains under investigation.