Groups meet cops over Merdeka gatherings

Two groups, the Bersih-styled Coalition of Promises (Gabungan Janji) and the Preservation of Jalan Sultan Committee (PJSC), will hold separate gatherings on the eve of National Day

FMT ALERT

KUALA LUMPUR: The police today summoned organisers from two different lobby groups planning to hold “celebratory gatherings” on the eve of National Day on Aug 31.

The Bersih-styled Coalition of Promises (Gabungan Janji) and the Preservation of Jalan Sultan Committee (PJSC) met with the Dang Wangi district police and held a dialogue about both gatherings — one to be held at Dataran Merdeka at 10pm and the other at Jalan Sultan at 8.30pm respectively.

Representing Gabungan Janji, Maria Chin Abdullah, also a Bersih steering committee member and Empower executive director, said she met with district police chief ACP Zainuddin Ahmad together with PJSC co-chair Stanley Yong for about an hour.

“Our events are separate, but they are simply two ways to celebrate Merdeka Day. To gather in friendship and harmony and celebration,” she said.

Both appealed to the authorities to allow the two “historic” events to proceed without restrictions and provide security.

“We will, on our part, try to minimise inconvenience and allow this to be a celebration,” said Maria.

Asked if the police had given the “green light”, Maria said the briefing was positive and “jovial” but added that the police was not specific about giving their approval for the events.

“He was briefing us about the Peaceful Assembly Act and procedures, and that they will monitor the situation. He also advised us to take precautions,” she added.

MORE TO FOLLOW