KOTA KINABALU: The Gempur Rasuah 2.0 rally in the city, organised by Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) students, concluded controversially when the organisers accidentally caused a safety risk by burning placards on Sunday (June 22).
Initially viewed as a brave movement by youths to voice their thoughts on important issues, the rally began on Saturday (June 21) and was seen as inconvenient by some, but crucial by others.
However, the rally's conclusion took a wrong turn when people condemned the action of burning placards.
UMS alumni present at the rally supported the participants, appreciating their stance on corruption.
"They are not hurting anyone. They are just standing and walking on the sidewalk," said an alumni member.
High school leavers were also present to show silent support for the cause.
On Sunday, rally-goers drew a huge placard to protest corruption and then burned it.
UMS student group Suara Mahasiswa president Muhamad Fadhil Muhamad Kasim, who carried kerosene, almost got burned during the act.
Fadhil stated they assessed the area for safety before burning the placard, intending to send a strong message to leaders.
After the act, they cleaned up, leaving only after police inspection at 1pm.
Kota Kinabalu OCPD Asst Comm Kasim Muda said a full statement would be issued on Monday (June 23).
On social media, the placard burning was criticised, with many saying it did not fit Sabah’s culture and was not a peaceful demonstration.
Some suggested the rally should have remained peaceful without extreme actions like burning placards.
Critics worried that such actions could lead to more dangerous stunts in the future.
