Anti-kleptocracy rally off to slow start

PETALING JAYA: The “Love Malaysia, Anti Kleptocracy” rally at Padang Timur is off to a slow start as the hot weather seems to have convinced most protesters to wait out the midday heat before turning up.

Many of those here were seen to be hiding under the shade of the surrounding buildings around Padang Timur while waiting for the rally to start at 6pm.

The protesters present have been seen visiting food trucks and the fast food outlet nearby.

Some also bought t-shirts and other merchandise sold at tents set up by the organisers on the field.

While everyone waits for the main event to start, with speeches scheduled for 6pm, a couple of opposition politicians, including Amanah president Mohamad Sabu and DAP youth leader Dyana Sofya Daud were spotted in the crowd.

However, Red Shirts leader Jamal Yunos is absent, although having announced earlier that he planned to crash the rally. 

The police presence is minimal as the Petaling Jaya City Council enforcement officers who are directing traffic in the area outnumber them.