Teacher pleads not guilty to negligence charges in fatal school accident

Sakinah Ismail, a 57-year-old teacher, pleaded not guilty in the Kota Bharu Magistrate's Court to two charges following a vehicle accident at SMK Tanjong Mas in April. The incident involved a Honda HR-V that reportedly veered off course after the driver accidentally pressed the accelerator.

The first charge, under Section 304A of the Penal Code, involves negligence causing the death of a 13-year-old Form 1 student, Nur Fatimatul Hawa Mohd Azaudin, near the school's surau. The second charge, under Section 336 of the Penal Code, involves negligence that endangered the life of another 13-year-old student, Zara Akhtar Zamzuri, at the same time and location.

The defense highlighted the accused's exemplary service record and status as a recipient of the Excellent Service Award, requesting minimum bail. The court granted bail of RM2,000 with one surety and has scheduled a case mention for December 6, 2026.