KUALA LUMPUR – As the investigation into the murder of Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matiin continues, residents of Idaman Apartments in Damansara Damai remain cautious when venturing outside their homes.
Speaking to Scoop, residents expressed their unease and anticipation for the police’s findings, as the perpetrator is still at large.
Aisyah, a five-year resident, shared that finding comfort is difficult with the investigation still ongoing after six months. She noted that the incident has made parents more vigilant when out with their children.
“Safety-wise, it is still alright here. But those with children must always be vigilant and cannot be as carefree as before,” she said.
“Before the case, there used to be many children playing (outside), but now there aren’t any. Even if there are, the children are accompanied by their parents.”
Aisyah, a teacher at a nearby school, mentioned the trauma felt not only by Zayn’s parents but by all residents.
The incident has also made adults more aware of their safety, emphasising that such tragedies can affect anyone, regardless of age.
Echoing the sentiments, a resident named Aishah, who had lived here since she was a child, noted that residents are always on guard despite the situation gradually normalising. She said that the area remains sought-after for its strategic location.
“Financially, there is no problem, as this area is still a hotspot for residents due to its accessibility to an MRT station,” the 24-year-old said.
“But socially, when other people hear about ‘Damansara Damai’, they often relate it to the case. But it is a minor fright.”
Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said he trusts the police to handle the investigation. He said that residents receive regular updates via WhatsApp, including the reenactment involving Zayn’s mother at the scene this morning.
“I have stayed here for about seven to eight years. The area is safe; there’s only this one case. Everyone here gets WhatsApp notifications on updates regarding the investigation,” he said, adding that about 500 residents receive these updates.
Only Zayn’s mother, Ismanira Abdul Manaf, toured the scene, while her husband, Zaim Ikhwan Zahari, was not present. Both were arrested on May 31 and remanded for seven days starting June 1 to assist in the investigation.
On Friday, the magistrates’ court extended their remand for another six days until June 13.
Selangor police chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said the extended remand was necessary to verify certain matters and discrepancies.
Zayn’s body was discovered in a creek about 200m from his home on December 6 of last year. Despite thorough checks and DNA testing of other residents, no arrests were made until the parents’ detainment. – June 10, 2024