PUTRAJAYA: Rally organisers must adhere to the law and seek permission from the site owner, says Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
The government spokesperson made this statement to the media after participating in a fireside chat at the Inaugural Asia International Security Summit and Expo 2025 on Jan 22.
He was asked if Pakatan Harapan had sought permission from shopping mall owners before holding reformasi protests when the coalition was in opposition.
An anti-corruption rally, named Himpunan Rakyat Benci Rasuah, is scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday (Jan 25), concluding with protesters gathering at Dataran Merdeka.
"We need to consider both the aspects of safety and adherence to the law. I believe there have been many instances where gatherings, such as the one at Padang Merbok, have applied for and received approval from the organisers.
"There are many factors to consider, and as Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution mentioned, all these factors are taken into account when deciding whether to approve or not.
"However, if anyone or any party wants to organise a gathering, the law clearly states that permission from the site owner must be obtained.
"If the site owner does not permit it, then it is a violation of the law. Therefore, we urge all Malaysians, regardless of political beliefs or other factors, to always comply with the law," said Fahmi.
On Jan 21, Saifuddin stated that the Peaceful Assembly Act is explicit in its requirements.
"Organisers should know what their responsibilities are if they read the Act. This includes notifying the police. Every premise has an owner. For example, Padang Merbok is owned by the municipal council.
"Dataran Merdeka has an owner as well. You need to get permission from the City Hall," said the Home Minister.
