KUALA LUMPUR: The people have the right to freedom of expression including to organise or participate in peaceful gatherings as long as they adhere to stipulated regulations, said Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah.
Citing the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 (Act 736), he said, the organiser is required to notify the police within five days before the date of the proposed assembly.
"It is the responsibility of the police to take the necessary actions that are deemed necessary to ensure the gathering is conducted in an orderly manner.
"Based on this act, the application for a permit is the notification of the assembly," he said in response to a question by Chow Yu Hui (PH-Raub) about whether a permit from the police is required to organise assembly during the question and answer session in the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday (Oct 22).
Shamsul Anuar said the notification of the assembly under Section 9(1) of the Act must meet the prescribed requirements, including completing the
notification form on the details of the proposed assembly, the estimated number of participants and individuals appointed by the organiser to ensure the assembly runs in an orderly manner.
He said the police have the power under Section 15 of the Act to impose conditions and restrictions on a gathering to ensure public order and safety, as well as protect the rights and freedom of others.
"The police will allow the assembly if all regulations are complied with but violations also occur such as touching on sensitive issues,” he said. - Bernama
