Malaysia: Large demonstration at US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur Dec. 15

Event

A large demonstration is planned in front of the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur on Friday, December 15, in protest of the recent US announcement that it will recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and begin preparations to move the US Embassy to the city. At least 1000 people are expected to participate in the demonstration, which is set to take place beginning at roughly 14:00 (local time) and will likely last one to two hours. The US Embassy will close at 12:00 on Friday in advance of the protest. A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are expected near the US Embassy on Friday.

Context

On December 6, President Trump announced that the US officially recognizes Jerusalem as Israel's capital, a departure from the previous US and international position of neutrality on the status of the city claimed by both Israelis and Palestinians. Many world leaders had strongly advised the US administration against the move, claiming it would render impossible the establishment of a Palestinian state and would inflame tensions across the Muslim world.

Advice

Individuals in Kuala Lumpur are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations due to the associated risk of violence, to prepare for associated traffic disruptions, and to adhere to all orders issued by local authorities.

A surge in anti-American and anti-Western sentiment is likely in some areas in Malaysia over the coming weeks; all travelers, and Westerners in particular, are advised to maintain a low profile (do not discuss sensitive topics, do not stop to take photographs of demonstrations, etc.) and avoid unnecessary movements in the event of unrest.