Trial begins for Malaysian teen accused of murderring schoolmate Yap Shing Xuen
A 14-year-old boy is on trial in Malaysia for the murder of a 16-year-old schoolmate, sparking a national debate on the influence of social media and online radicalization. The case has prompted the government to consider stricter regulations on children's internet usage.
Why it matters
The case highlights growing concerns regarding the impact of digital content, such as incel culture, on the behavior of minors.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Tessa Wong Watch: Malaysian boy goes on trial for allegedly murdering girl at school A teenage boy in Malaysia is on trial for allegedly killing a female schoolmate, in a high-profile case that has sparked debate about the effects of social media on children.
The boy is accused of murdering 16-year-old Yap Shing Xuen last October. The girl was found fatally stabbed multiple times in a toilet at their secondary school on the outskirts of the capital Kuala Lumpur.
The boy, who was 14 at the time, has pleaded not guilty. If convicted, he could spend decades in prison.
Police previously said they suspected social media could have influenced the boy.
Police also confirmed a note was found on him at the time of his arrest. Reports about the note's alleged content have fueled the wider discussion about the role of social media.
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