Malaysia prepares mass burial for school fire victims

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Malaysian authorities are preparing a mass burial for victims of a fire at a private Islamic boarding school, which has sparked outrage and renewed calls for proper regulation of religious schools.

Health Director-General Noor Hisham Abdullah says all 23 victims, mostly young boys burnt beyond recognition, have been identified through DNA tests.

At least a dozen graves have been dug at an Islamic cemetery outside Kuala Lumpur for the burial later Friday.

The pre-dawn blaze Thursday at a three-story building blocked the lone exit to the boys' dormitory on the top floor, trapping them behind barred windows. Officials said the school was operating without a fire safety permit and license.