23 Aug 2019 | 04:40 PM UTC
Malaysia: Protest scheduled in Kuala Lumpur August 24
Protest denouncing Islamic preacher to be held in Kuala Lumpur August 24; heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions expected
Event
A protest denouncing controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik is scheduled to take place at 14:00 (local time) on Saturday, August 24, in the Brickfields district of Kuala Lumpur. Police have denied a permit for the demonstration. Protest organizers have indicated that the rally will go on as planned in Brickfields' 'Little India.'
A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected in the area. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.
Context
Zakir Naik is an Indian Islamic televangelist who has come under fire for comments made during a lecture on August 8 that were perceived to be racially insensitive towards Malaysia's minority Hindu community. Naik has since been banned from delivering public speeches in Malaysia.
Advice
Individuals in Kuala Lumpur are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution, prepare for associated disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
