Home Minister Moots Scrapping Approval Process For Peaceful Rallies

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Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has suggested amending existing laws to allow peaceful assemblies without requiring a lengthy approval process.
"I am inclined to say that the law should be dynamic. The law on peaceful assembly was enacted in 2012. Perhaps (it can be proposed) that an 'approval process' is not necessary if there is a designated area for assemblies.
"It is still necessary for organisers to inform the police about the planned assembly, and the police should provide security in the area. I believe this approach could ease (concerns that there are restrictions on assemblies)," Berita Harian quoted him as saying.
Saifuddin and the authorities, who came under fire over allegations of attempting to stifle the Jan 25 anti-graft rally organised by students in Kuala Lumpur, said the rights and freedoms of citizens to assemble are still upheld.
However, there are reasonable "regulations" set to balance the need to maintain security and public order.
He stated that the government has never wavered on the right to assemble, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.
"The current government remains committed to defending and upholding the rights stated in the Constitution, including the right to freedom of assembly as guaranteed under Article 10 (1)(b). This right will continue to be upheld by the government," he added.
Saifuddin said that when the police issue statements regarding compliance with regulations, it does not mean that the government is against assemblies being held.
"When the police communicate, do not assume that assemblies are not allowed.
“This creates the perception that the government does not permit assemblies, when in fact, not a single word has been spoken by me stating that assemblies cannot be held.
"For example, when the police inform about the location of an assembly if the location belongs to a private owner, the law requires you to obtain permission first," he added. - Mkini

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