PUTRAJAYA: Only around 2% and 1% of peaceful assembly applications lead to legal action in 2023 and 2024, respectively, says Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
“There has been various reactions that this government has forgotten its roots. The leaders today were graduates of ‘the school of street demonstrations’ but when in power they take the opposite approach.
“Let the numbers speak for themselves. Throughout 2023, there were over 10,000 applications for assemblies and of that 98% ended with the assembly going through without any action to stop it by the government.
"In 2024, there were over 7,000 applications sent to the police and 99% were allowed,” he said when met after an appreciation ceremony at the National Registration Department headquarters here Thursday (Feb 13).
In 2024, out of the 1,787 cases opened by the police, only 30 were charged in court, he added.
Saifuddin also said that not obtaining the permission of the premises owner was the main reason why applications were denied.
“This is a requirement under Section 11 of the Peaceful Assembly Act. Whether you agree with it or not, it is an Act that has been approved by Parliament and the police have to enforce the law,” he said.
Saifuddin added that he had been instructed to amend the law in this year’s parliamentary sessions.
“When the Cabinet has agreed on a policy level, we will have engagements with stakeholders. This includes activists.
“While this is going on, the Prime Minister has said that a moratorium is to be put in place. What that means is that starting now, if there are any peaceful assemblies to be held, Section 11 will not be used,” he said.
