SUNGAI SIPUT: The murder of 10-year-old Nuraina Humaira Rosli, whose body was discovered last Saturday, is the first such case to shock Kampung Bersah, Pos Kuala Mu.
Tok Batin Hadu Long, 66, the village chief for 19 years, expressed deep dismay over the tragedy, saying that this was the first serious crime to affect the village in his tenure.
"The community is in shock and fear. The atmosphere here has been sombre since Nuraina went missing.
"Authorities, including the police, firemen, and Rela, have been tirelessly searching for her. As the chief responsible for the welfare and safety of our residents, I am profoundly saddened by this incident," he said.
Hadu plans to convene a meeting with the village's 200 residents to provide updates on the case and discuss enhanced security measures.
"We hope such severe cases, like rape and murder, will never happen again here or in any other Orang Asli villages," he added.
The victim's uncle, Zulkefli Angah, 21, expressed profound grief and shock over the tragic outcome.
"We thought she was either bathing in the river or playing at a friend's house. We never expected this outcome."
When Nuraina's body was found in a swampy area, Zulkefli was overwhelmed with grief.
"I had to leave when I saw her condition. It was heartbreaking and disappointing. Even now, the family struggles to sleep, haunted by memories of Nuraina's affectionate nature."
The young girl's body was discovered on Aug 18, after she had been reported missing overnight.
A 17-year-old suspect has been remanded for seven days to assist with police investigations.