Malaysian police have reclassified an assault case involving a soldier’s death as murder following his passing on Saturday, intensifying scrutiny over discipline within the country’s armed forces.

According to Channel News Asia (CNA), the victim, Amirul Raziq Rosafindi, died at about 9:34 am after spending more than a week on life support. He had been hospitalised following an alleged assault at the Royal Malay Regiment camp on March 30.

Bentong district police chief Zaiham Mohd Kahar confirmed that the case, initially investigated as causing grievous harm, is now being treated as murder. He stated that investigations will be reviewed, including previously recorded witness statements, while additional testimonies may be collected if necessary, The Star reported.

The main suspect, a 37-year-old corporal identified as Sukry Tasu, had earlier pleaded not guilty to seven charges of causing grievous harm. The charges relate not only to the deceased but also to six other soldiers who were reportedly assaulted during the same incident.

Reports indicate that Amirul lost consciousness during the assault, while the other victims were taken for medical examinations. Local media, including Free Malaysia Today, reported that the corporal allegedly punched, kicked and struck the soldiers after expressing dissatisfaction with how they had cleaned a weapons store.

Malaysia’s Defence Minister Khaled Nordin has since expressed condolences to the bereaved family and described the incident as serious. He stressed that violence and misconduct do not reflect the values of the Malaysian Armed Forces and has ordered stricter enforcement of discipline, according to CNA. The suspect was arrested on March 31, a day after the incident.

This case adds to growing concern over abuse within military ranks. In a similar incident last year, a serviceman died from chest injuries linked to alleged bullying in barracks. Between 2019 and 2024, at least 31 army personnel were dismissed for bullying and abuse, with offenders including senior-ranking officers, according to previous reports.

Authorities say the ongoing investigation and post-mortem results will be key in determining the next steps in the case.