POLICE PROHIBIT ANY GATHERINGS AT AMPANG PARK TOMORROW
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 25 (Bernama) -- The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has prohibited any gatherings at Ampang Park, Jalan Ampang here tomorrow due to security reasons and to safeguard the country’s image during the 47th ASEAN Summit.
Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Fadil Marsus said the area has been assessed as unsuitable for assemblies based on intelligence findings and security analyses conducted with other agencies.
“Ampang Park has been classified as a red zone as it lies less than 50 metres from the protocol route and official accommodation for ASEAN Summit delegates.
“For security reasons, and to preserve Malaysia’s image and ensure the smooth conduct of the international event, police will not permit any gatherings in the area,” he told a press conference at the Kuala Lumpur Police Contingent Headquarters today.
He said police had received information about up to three gatherings planned for tomorrow at Ampang Park, expected to draw between 1,000 and 1,500 participants from 9 am to 11.30 am.
It is learnt that the gatherings are being organised by a coalition of pro-Palestinian groups to protest against the presence of United States President Donald Trump in conjunction with the summit.
Fadil said police have met with the organisers and proposed alternative venues such as Dataran Merdeka and Padang Merbok, but the organisers remained intent on proceeding with the gathering at Ampang Park.
“If the gatherings proceed, they will be considered a breach of security directives and firm action will be taken in accordance with the law. Police will order participants to disperse and maintain control to prevent any provocation,” he said, adding that while PDRM respects the public’s right to assemble, all parties must comply with laws and safety instructions.
Fadil said Kuala Lumpur police will deploy full strength, including reinforcements from other districts, to maintain security and order throughout the summit.
He also urged the public to cooperate with authorities and plan their movements in advance to avoid traffic congestion or disruption.
“The 47th ASEAN Summit reflects Malaysia’s standing on the international stage. It is our shared responsibility -- including the public and NGOs -- to ensure the smooth running of this important event,” he added.
Malaysia, as ASEAN Chair this year under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, will host the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from Oct 26 to 28.
-- BERNAMA
