PAS rally kicks off at Padang Merbok

Supporters, mostly clad in purple, have begun sitting on the field under the scorching sun.

KUALA LUMPUR: The "Himpunan 355" rally organised by PAS on Saturday has kicked-off with nasyid performances.

The crowd has trickled in at Padang Merbok here in support of a Bill to enhance the Syariah Court's powers.

Supporters, mostly clad in purple, have begun sitting on the field under the scorching sun.

In the surrounding areas, stalls selling food, drinks, t-shirts and prayer items have been set up.

The rally is being held to show support for PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang's Private Member's Bill ahead of the next Parliament session in March.

The Bill seeks to increase the penalties of the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965 (Act 355).

Abdul Hadi and other leaders are expected to give their speeches later at night.

The rally is expected to end around 11pm.