Malaysia: Protest over UN racism convention in Kuala Lumpur Dec. 8 /update 2

Event

The Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) and the United Malays National Organization (UMNO) opposition party have confirmed that a rally scheduled to take place in the capital Kuala Lumpur on December 8, against the UN’s International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), will go ahead. This follows the government’s November 23 decision to not ratify the convention. The rally, which has been approved by the authorities, is set to be held from 14:00 to 18:00 (local time) on Jalan Raja street, across from  Merdeka Square. Road closures in the vicinity are to be anticipated; the protest is likely to attract a large crowd. 

Context

The government initially announced in September at the UN General Assembly that it would ratify ICERD. This intention to ratify had created a heated controversy in the country and sparked localized protests.

Advice

Individuals in Malaysia should avoid all gatherings as a precaution.