MALAY MAIL ONLINE
KUALA LUMPUR, April 1 — Despite a police warning, two opposition leaders confirmed today they are going ahead with their planned protest against the Goods and Services Tax (GST) at Dataran Merdeka here tomorrow.
PKR secretary-general Rafizi Ramli said there will be no changes to the itinerary, adding that participants have been told to gather at the historic square in the capital city.
“We will go ahead to gather at Dataran Merdeka as planned,” the Pandan MP told Malay Mail Online when contacted.
DAP lawmaker Eddie Ng Tien Chee also confirmed the venue will not be changed for the rally against the broad-based consumption tax that came into effect a year ago on April 1.
He insisted that Malaysians have a right to Dataran Merdeka, pointing out that other demonstrations have taken place there.
“Yes, it will go on. Previously, there were Kita Lawan and Bersih rallies along with other rallies there,” the Balakong assemblyman told Malay Mail Online.
He also said the police should offer assistance to rally-goers instead of threatening action.
The rally’s main organiser, Parti Amanah Negara president Mohamad Sabu, has yet to respond to Malay Mail Online.
Yesterday, the police told organisers of the anti-GST protest to steer clear of Dataran Merdeka, warning that those who insist on using the venue would face action.
Dang Wangi district police chief Zainol Samah said the police were informed on March 30 that City Hall already has plans to use the historic square for another event, which makes the venue off-limits to protesters.
He added that if the rally continued at Dataran Merdeka, it would be unlawful under Section 11 of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012.
Section 11 of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 requires the assembly organiser to get consent from the owner of the venue before using it.
The rally is organised by Pakatan Harapan to mark the first anniversary of the GST.
The opposition pact has repeatedly claimed that the consumption tax significantly reduces the purchasing power of most Malaysians, especially the bottom 40 per cent of wage earners.
Rally-goers are expected to gather outside the Sogo shopping mall at 2pm before marching to Dataran Merdeka tomorrow.
