PETALING JAYA: The parents of autistic boy Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matiin, who are being investigated for murder, are distressed and have asserted that their son's killer is at large.
The couple conveyed this to their counsel, Ilyani Khuszairy, when they met before the remand order application proceedings today before magistrate Ainaa Muhamad Kamal.
"They are both under tremendous pressure. We can see it in the father's face. He cries whenever we ask questions. He said the murderer is out there.
"The mother is well, but she is sad. She is not talking much. She is still in shock.
"They said they are treated well and will give their cooperation to the police.
"They hope that this case would be resolved amicably and investigations will be carried out transparently and fairly. They want justice for their son," said Ilyani after proceedings today.
Co-counsel Fahmi Abd Moin said they had for the first time met their clients before the proceedings this morning.
He said they had requested to meet with his clients during the six-day remand period, but it was subjected to the approval of the police.
"We have sent a letter to the police and requested to meet them, even for just a while," he added.
Meanwhile, Zayn Rayyan's 56-year-old paternal grandfather, Zahari Mohd Reba, said he wanted justice for his son, daughter-in-law and grandson.
"At the time of the incident (throughout investigations), he (Zayn's father) was with me.
Asked about his son's remarks that he was wronged, Zahari said he could not comment but was confident that the police are conducting their investigations transparently.
Zahari's wife, who did not want to be named, said pursuing justice was their focus.
"They are good parents," she said.
Zahari also clarified that counsel Mahmud Abd Jumaat, who stood for the couple during the previous remand application proceedings last week, was never officially appointed.
He said it was an initiative by a non-governmental organisation to find a lawyer for the couple.
"There has been a misunderstanding on this matter, so the issue of him (Mahmud) withdrawing does not arise.
"Fahmi is the counsel I have officially appointed," he said.