Sibu police confirm arrests in connection with family abuse case

SIBU (Jan 23): Police have confirmed arrests in connection with an investigation into alleged abuse and neglect following a viral letter reportedly written by a young woman before her death here.

Sibu police chief ACP Zulkipli Suhaili said that individuals linked to the case have been detained, without providing further details at this stage.

When asked if the arrested parties were the woman’s father and stepmother, he replied simply: “Yes.”

The case drew national attention after the letter, shared online by the deceased’s younger sister, sparked widespread public concern and calls for decisive action.

The letter, allegedly written by the deceased before her passing, detailed claims of prolonged physical and emotional mistreatment by her family.

She died at Sibu Hospital on Jan 18 after battling cancer.

Zulkipli previously confirmed that police received a formal report on Dec 9, 2025, alleging that the woman had been subjected to abuse by family members since 2013.

A full investigation was subsequently opened.

The case is being investigated under Section 31(1) of the Child Act 2001, which carries a penalty of a fine of up to RM50,000, imprisonment of up to 20 years, or both, upon conviction.

Zulkipli reiterated that investigations are ongoing and urged the public to refrain from speculation or spreading unverified information online, stressing that such actions could interfere with the investigation process.

“The police are conducting the investigation thoroughly and professionally in accordance with the law,” he said.

The viral letter has prompted extensive online discussion, with many questioning the next steps to be taken by authorities and calling for stronger attention to issues of domestic abuse, family welfare, and victim protection.

Police have assured that further updates will be provided when appropriate, subject to the progress of investigations.