Rais to flashmobbers: Don't go overboard

Information, Communications and Culture Minister Rais Yatim today advised the people not to go overboard and disrupt public order as the police still have adequate powers to act despite the government's liberalisation of various laws.

"I believe the police will conduct regular monitoring and take the appropriate action once there is a breach of public order, regardless of whether it is in the shopping malls or in the streets," he said.

Rais was asked to comment on the incident at Suria KLCC here yesterday where a group of about 100 people surprised Christmas shoppers with a flashmob act to protest against the Peaceful Assembly Bill.

"Do not go overboard just because the prime minister or the government has liberalised several aspects of our life. The police still have their powers," he told reporters after participating in a badminton tournament between the Jasa and D'Sury teams, here.

Rais said those who organised gatherings in public places, particularly where there is a concentration of people, do not appreciate personal freedom.

Najib's 10 ways

Asked about elected representatives who are prepared to step down voluntarily and not contest in the next general election, the minister said it was up to the party leadership to determine that and select candidates of its choice.

He said Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, who is also Umno president and Barisan Nasional chairman, definitely knows the potential of those eligible to be the electoral candidates.

"The PM knows who is productive. He has 10 ways of knowing whether an individual is good or otherwise. It is needless to press others for their opinions.

"As for me, we have much more work to be done than to determine who will be the candidates. Most importantly, can the individual perform and serve the country and not deceive the people?" he said.

On another matter, Rais said departments and agencies under the ministry should emulate the Special Affairs Department (Jasa) in drawing up sports activities which he added could foster camaraderie and also ensure physical and mental health.

Earlier, Rais partnered his wife, Maznah Rais, to beat Jasa director-general Fuad Hassan and his wife, Mariam Bahari, 21-19, 21-14 in a game of badminton.

- Bernama