The Sessions Court here has sentenced a nanny to one year in prison for the criminal neglect that led to the death of a 15-month-old infant, popularly known as “Baby Syifaa,” four years ago. Judge N. Kanageswari delivered the verdict against 41-year-old Khairunnisa Ahmad Damanhuri during the final day of the trial involving the tragic 2022 incident in Bandar Sri Sendayan. In addition to the custodial sentence, the court ordered the accused to pay a fine of RM15,000, with a default sentence of four months’ imprisonment if she fails to settle the amount.
The court further mandated that Khairunnisa perform 48 hours of community service within six months of completing her jail term. She is also required to execute a one-year good behaviour bond of RM5,000 without security, supported by one surety. The prosecution was led by Negeri Sembilan State Prosecution Director Ku Hayati Ku Haron, while the accused was represented by lawyer S. Kavittha. The parents of the victim, Nour Rania Asyifaa—Anida Idrus, 44, and Yuseri Yusoff, 42—were present in the gallery to witness the sentencing.
According to the charge sheet, Khairunnisa, who was entrusted with the care of the child, neglected the victim in a manner that likely caused physical injury. The offence occurred at approximately 12:30 pm at a childcare centre in Bandar Sri Sendayan on 22 February 2022. The prosecution brought the case under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, a provision that carries a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment, a RM50,000 fine, or both upon conviction.
The sentencing follows a pivotal Coroner’s Court ruling on 31 July 2024, which determined that Baby Syifaa’s cause of death was pressure on the neck. The infant had been found unconscious in a cradle at the childcare facility. Throughout the lengthy inquest proceedings that commenced in September 2022, a total of 28 witnesses were called to testify, including the victim’s parents and medical experts, to establish the circumstances surrounding the fatal neglect.
This case has drawn significant public attention since the incident occurred, highlighting the critical importance of safety standards in childcare centres. While the maximum allowable sentence under the Child Act is extensive, the court’s decision today reflects the specific findings of the trial regarding the nature of the neglect. The conclusion of this criminal proceeding marks a major milestone in the long-running legal battle for justice sought by the family of the late Nour Rania Asyifaa.
