Authorities try to halt Turun protesters from marching to Dataran Merdeka

 

The authorities are attempting to stop the crowd of over 100 street protesters from marching to Dataran Merdeka.

The group that calls itself the Turun Movement, has gathered outside of the Sogo shopping complex today demanding that Putrajaya springs into action to deal with the hike in prices of goods.

The organisers were giving speeches outside of the Sogo shopping complex for half an hour before attempting to march to Dataran Merdeka.

Speakers who took turns addressing their supporters include student activists, youth politicians, and at least one elected representative, Kapar MP Abdullah Sani Abdul Hamid.

Former Muda secretary-general Amir Abdul Hadi reminded the crowd of how a segment of elected representatives had recently enjoyed a pay raise, amid the people's struggle.

"Is it fair when the people are suffering so much, we then hear news of ministers getting a raise? How is this justice?" he stressed.

The Sabah state assembly had recently approved a pay raise for all elected representatives, while Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Economy) Mustapa Mohamed reportedly said the federal government's austerity drive will not involve cuts to allowances enjoyed by senior civil servants or ministers.

Both Johor DAP deputy chairperson Sheikh Omar Ali and newly elected PKR Youth chief Adam Adli also echoed similar sentiments in their speeches, rallying against the government's alleged inaction in responding to the people's demands

Their five demands to the government are: that ministers' pay is cut, government subsidies are continued, deliver decent assistance to the people, control prices of goods, and address the issue of food security.

Authorities swiftly formed a human barricade to stop the attempted march, prompting supporters to gather on the street.

Muda secretary-general Amira Aisha Abdul Aziz, when met later, said a brief negotiation between organisers and the police eventually led to an agreement for the gathering to go on for another 15 minutes, with more speeches.

The last speaker, International Islamic University of Malaysia student union president Aliff Naif Mohd Hizam urged the younger generation to not be afraid and rise against injustice.

"Even though there are risks, we are not afraid. Students are with the people," said Aliff.

Organisers issued a dispersal call at 3pm under close watch from the police. - Mkini