14 Sep 2023 | 08:06 AM UTC
Malaysia: Rival groups to rally in front of Sogo shopping mall in Kuala Lumpur from 14:00 Sept. 16 /update 1
Rival groups to protest in front of Sogo shopping mall, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 14:00 Sept. 16. Increased security likely.
Event
Rival political groups will gather in front of Sogo shopping mall in Kuala Lumpur Sept. 16. Youth activists associated with the Perikatan Nasional (PN) political coalition will demonstrate from 14:00 to denounce a recent court ruling granting Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi a discharge on charges of criminal breach of trust, bribery, and money laundering. Meanwhile, activists associated with UMNO Sungai Besar Division have called for a counterprotest. A few hundred to a thousand people may attend the protests. Organizers may change their gatherings' location and/or start time with little-to-no notice due to security issues. Potential alternative gathering sites include prominent government buildings, public squares, and major thoroughfares.
A heightened security presence is likely around the protest site. Localized traffic and business disruptions are possible. Clashes between police and demonstrators, and members of rival political camps may occur, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
Advice
Avoid the protest site Sept. 16 as a precaution and to minimize travel delays. Heed all official directives. Allow additional time to reach destinations if traveling near the affected area. Leave an area at the first sign of unrest.
