The tahfiz school did not commit any offence, despite having a student die from injuries due to suspected physical abuse by an assistant warden of the school, investigations by the state religious department showed.

This was revealed by Johor executive council member in charge of religious affairs, Abd Mutalip Abd Rahim, who said the Johor Islamic Affairs Department (JAIJ) has completed its investigation, The Star reported.

“However, in light of the recent incident, JAIJ will come up with new guidelines for these schools to hire staff, especially those in charge of students' welfare.

“There are at least 86 privately-run registered religious schools in Johor and previously, we found it difficult for them to register with JAIJ,” Abd Mutalip was quoted by The Star as saying.

Mohamad Thaqif Amin Mohd Gaddafi, whose legs were amputated due to bacterial infection, died from his injuries yesterday.

His family believes Mohamad Thaqif was beaten at the religious school, and that other students are also subjected to the same treatment.

The assistant warden, who is an ex-convict who spent 30 months in jail for theft, is under remand and is now being investigated for murder.

Post-mortem report ready in two weeks

Meanwhile, the post-mortem report on Mohamad Thaqif's death is likely to be ready in the next two weeks, Bernama reported.

State exco member in charge of health, environment, education and information, Ayub Rahmat, said the hospital needed to conduct a thorough study on the matter and the physical marks found on the body of the 11-year-old tahfiz student.

"It will take a little time, maybe in two weeks and, even then, depending on the willingness of the hospital, the police and others to expedite the process.

"As mentioned yesterday, before the post-mortem was performed, the doctor talked to the parents, asked about the police investigation and consulted the doctor in charge of the boy on the existing medical records," Ayub was quoted as saying by Bernama.

He spoke to reporters after officiating the state level oral hygiene promotional programme in Johor Baru today.

Ayub said the report would also be taking into account the views of the parents and the condition of the remains.

"After taking into account every aspect involved, only then you can start trying to find the truth and what is the real cause behind this incident," he said at a press conference.

Mohamad Thaqif died at the Sultan Ismail Hospital and was buried at the Felda Bukit Aping Timur Muslim Cemetery at 12.37am today.

Ayub also urged the people not be too quick to judge any party until the post-mortem report was ready as no other student from the same religious school was experiencing any sign similar to the deceased.