Deputy inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar has declared a blanket ban on all events by the organisers of 'Seksualiti Merdeka'.
Speaking at a press conference at Sungai Besi today, Khalid said the police will clamp down on the programme that was to run from Nov 9 to 13.
"The police is responsible to maintain public order. When there is a threat to public order, then we must take the appropriate action."
The directive comes from the police themselves, added Khalid.
Seksualiti Merdeka is an annual festival celebrating the human rights of people of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity, organised by a loose coalition of NGOs, artistes, activists and individuals since 2008.
The festival’s programme, which includes forums, talks, workshops, book launches, an art exhibition and stage performances, was to be launched by former Bar Council president Ambiga Sreenevasan.
It was held without any problems in previous years.
[More to follow]
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