Four Orang Asli pupils buried en masse in a grave at Kampung Penad

The four Orang Asli pupils of Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Tohoi, who were found dead after being missing in the thick jungle in Pos Tohoi here since August, were buried en masse in a grave in Kampung Penad here today.

They were Ika Ayel, 7, Haikal Yaakob, 8, Linda Rosli, 8, and Juvina David, 7.

Their families were allowed to claim the remains after identification via deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) tests were concluded by the Chemistry Department.

The vehicles carrying the remains of the children were accompanied by 20 other vehicles carrying their family members, as well as the Orang Asli Development Department deputy director-general Nisra Nisran Ramlan.

The children were laid to rest simultaneously according to customs of the Temiar tribe at 2pm.

Seven SK Tohoi pupils were reported missing on Aug 23 after fleeing from their hostel for fear of punishment for swimming in a nearby river without permission.

Two of the pupils, Norieen Yaakob,10, and Miksudiar Aluj,11, were found alive on Oct 9 after going missing for 48 days in the jungle.

Efforts were being done to find the remaining child, Sasa Sobrie, 8.

Meanwhile, Haikal's mother, Midah Angah, 40, said she rushed to the hospital today to ensure that her son could be buried together with the three other victims according to their customs in her hometown.

"I just want to be there to send him off for the last time," said Midah, who is also the mother of Norieen who is currently receiving treatment at Raja Perempuan Zainab II Hospital in Kota Baharu.