KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 22 — Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail today said civil society groups and members of the public are free to gather and express their views during the upcoming 47th Asean Summit, as long as they cooperate with the authorities and avoid restricted areas.
Speaking at a press conference in Parliament today, Saifuddin Nasution said international events of this scale require tight security due to the diverse profiles of visiting leaders and ongoing geopolitical issues.
“Although we recognise there are differing views and active participation among civil society, I want to stress that they are free to express themselves, gather.
“However, we urge them to cooperate with the security team, particularly at locations where foreign guests will be. One, is at the summit venue and second is at their respective hotels,” he said.
He added that it would be best for the public to avoid gatherings or events outside the security radius.
Saifuddin Nasution said police preparations for the summit are now at a fully ready stage, with 10,400 officers deployed for security operations that began on October 16.
The summit is expected to see the arrival of up to 23 heads of government.
He said police have conducted several dry runs involving official routes for delegates travelling from Subang Airport and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
“All protocol routes have been identified, and we have announced road closures in stages. We are not using the term ‘lockdown’ because it carries the wrong connotation,” he said.
Yesterday, a coalition of Malaysian civil society and political groups announced their plan for a public protest titled “Trump You’re Not Welcome in Malaysia” on October 26 at Ampang Park here.
The demonstration, scheduled from 9am to 12pm, appears to be aimed at voicing opposition to US president Donald Trump who is set visit Kuala Lumpur on the same day to attend the 47th Asean Summit.
The protest comes amid criticism of Trump‘s policies and statements towards Palestine and the Middle East.
