ALOR STAR: The government will ensure there are no short comings in the inquest proceedings involving fireman Muhammad Adib Mohd Kassim.
Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin said this was to ensure the issue of Muhammad Adib's death would not be taken advantage by certain quarters and being turned into a into a polemic.
The inquest will kick-off from Jan 18, onwards.
She said the case is being investigated thoroughly as it is a national case.
"The priority is on Muhammad Adib's case which is following all the necessary procedures involved, including the post mortem, those involved in the post mortem procedures and the specialist doctors involved in his treatment. They would be called to provide testimony.
The post-mortem report would also be submitted to the Magistrate soon, she said.
"We do not want to leave out anything as well as ensuring that there are no shortcomings when the matter is raised in court.
“We are fully prepared, otherwise it would end up becoming yet another issue and certain quarters would take advantage of the matter.
"Do not turn it into a polemic apart from the fact that the fireman was killed in the incident and that he should be given justice," she said.
Zuraida was speaking to reporters after visiting Muhammad Adib's family here at Kampung Tebengau, Kuala Kedah, today.
She said based on the latest information received, several new witnesses would called to provide testimony.
The minister adds that before this, 20 witnesses had been called to provide statements to the investigating officers involved in the case.
"We do not know, how long this inquest will take place. It will usually take place for a month but maybe the case could be completed sooner, provided all the necessary information is complete.
On Nov 27, Muhammad Adib and other rescuers from the Subang Jaya Emergency Response System (EMRS) unit were deployed to the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Subang Jaya to put out a vehicle fire.
However, Muhammad Adib was dragged out of the vehicle and set upon by rioters.
He was later rescued by members the public who rushed him to the Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC) for treatment. He was later transferred to the IJN to receive further treatment.
After 20 days of fighting for his life, Muhammad Adib died on Dec 17.