KUALA LUMPUR: The police will block any attempts to hold rallies or gatherings at Ampang Park on Sunday (Oct 26), says Comm Datuk Fadil Marsus.
The Kuala Lumpur police chief said at least three rallies were planned to be held at Ampang Park by various NGOs.
"We have engaged the organisers and told them not to do so," he told reporters at the KL police headquarters on Saturday (Oct 25).
Comm Fadil said Ampang Park was located 50m from a designated red zone in conjunction with the 47th Asean Summit.
"(The area) is near the Intercontinental Hotel, where delegates are staying.
"Furthermore, it is along the main routes used by delegates to attend the summit at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre," he said.
As such, for security reasons, police are prohibiting gatherings at the location.
"We were told that 1,000 to 1,500 people planned to take part in a pro-Palestine rally protesting against the presence of United States President Donald Trump at the 47th Asean Summit.
"We suggested that the organisers relocate to Dataran Merdeka or Padang Merbok, but they are adamant about having it (the gathering) at Ampang Park.
"If protesters still gather on Sunday, we will take stern action in dispersing them," said Comm Fadil.
He added that while the police respected the public’s right to gather and protest, doing so at Ampang Park on Sunday was not suitable, and the full strength of the KL police would be utilised to maintain order.
"It is also a matter of preserving the country's image as all eyes are on Malaysia (as the host of the summit)," he said.
Comm Fadil urged the public to fully cooperate with authorities and comply with instructions throughout the summit, which will be held from Sunday to Tuesday (Oct 28).
"We will also take early measures to prevent people from converging at or entering the area," he said.
