All You Need To Know About The Himpunan Maruah Melayu Protest Happening On Malaysia Day
Gabungan NGO-NGO Malaysia chief Jamal Md Yunos has invited everybody that feels 'Malay enough' to join the red shirts rally set to be held on Malaysia Day, 16 September.
By Nandini Balakrishnan — 11 Sep 2015, 08:12 PM — Updated about 9 years ago
DBKL says there was no damage to infrastructure or fixtures on the streets by 'Reds'
Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu or better known as the 'red shirt' rally was held yesterday, which coincided with Malaysia Day.
Image via The Malaysian InsiderKuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will send a cleanliness bill to the organisers of the red shirt rally within a week after assessments are made by Alam Flora.
“There was no damage to any infrastructure or fixtures on the streets. Alam Flora will make an estimate of the cost of cleaning in the coming week,” said Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Mohd Amin Nordin.
When asked whether the estimated cost would exceed the bill imposed on the previous Bersih 4 rally, Mohd Amin said to wait for the Alam Flora’s evaluation.
Previously, the Bersih 4 rally organisers were billed for manpower costs and damage claims totalling RM61,840 following their Aug 29-30 gathering.
therakyatpost.com
16 SEPT: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak congratulates the 'reds' for a peaceful rally
Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak sends his congratulations to the participants of the rally through a message read out by UMNO supreme council member Annuar Musa in a speech here.
"I just spoke to the prime minister. He is shocked and touched that the rally is so peaceful," he says.
“This is no ordinary festival. Let the voice of 250,000 people be a reminder (that) this country has an owner (negara ini bertuan).
malaysiakini.com
For unexplained reasons, Gabungan NGO-NGO Malaysia chief Jamal Md Yunos will be lodging a police report against the Petaling Street traders
Gabungan NGO-NGO Malaysia chief Jamal Md Yunos at Petaling Street, the very same place he assured he will not be going to during the rally
Image via MalaysiakiniJamal Md Yunos urges protesters to disperse promising to lodge a complaint against Petaling Street traders with the Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry.
"In two days’ time, I will hold a press conference to demand the ministry to take action against Petaling Street (traders). We give them seven days (to take action).
"After that, if no action is taken, I will lead you into Petaling Street. I promise you. If not, you can spit on my face," he says, to pacify protesters who still want to enter the street.
However, Jamal does not explain why action should be taken against the traders.
malaysiakini.com
Meanwhile, UMNO supreme council member Annuar Musa denies connection with the rioters that reacted violently to FRU's instructions
"We will not defend them. We will not provide our legal services to those who break the law," he says.
He denies knowledge of who the rioters were.
"We checked with our team leaders, they don't know anything (about them)," he adds.
malaysiakini.com
Following that, Gabungan NGO-NGO Malaysia chief Jamal MD Yunos holds Pakatan Rakyat responsible for the scuffle that happened in Petaling Street
"The commotion at Petaling Street [...] those who do not follow the law and caused chaos, this is all provocation by Pakatan Rakyat.
“They try to sabotage the programme. They want to cause problems. I strongly deny it. They are not part of us," said Jamal.
Jamal says he has trust in the police to control the situation, and urges police action against those who break the law.
"They are not part of us, we are good people," he tells reporters.
malaysiakini.com
After multiple negotiations with the FRU, some of the 'reds' are slowly starting to disperse from the Petaling Street area
Protesters shake hands with FRU personnel and prepare to disperse, but a small commotion breaks out when Gabungan NGO-NGO Malaysia president Jamal Mohd Yunos arrives at the scene.
He holds a discussion with the police and asks the media not to take photographs.
malaysiakini.com
FRU releases water cannons as 'Red' protesters break into acts of violence
FRU unleashes chemical-laced water into the crowd.
The water cannon truck had come on from Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock after the protesters start to throw plastic bottles and hurl verbal abuses at the police personnel, calling them ‘Barua Cina’ (Chinese lackeys).
Refusing to budge, some protesters pelt FRU personnel with water bottles. Police are now chasing the culprits.
Asked why they want to enter Petaling Street, some of the protesters say they want to disrupt the business there. However, the shops are closed for today.
malaysiakini.com
However, the protesters at Padang Merbok have already started to leave, peacefully
Hundreds are seen leaving Padang Merbok.
One participant, who identified himself only as Rahman, tells Malaysiakini they are heading back to their respective buses.
"They finish only at 6pm but we are leaving early," says Rahman, who came from Kelantan.
malaysiakini.com
Perkasa chief Ibrahim Ali says 'DAP is father of all racists'
Perkasa chief Ibrahim Ali delivers a speech and blames DAP for stoking racial sentiments in Malaysia.
"DAP cannot say they are not racist. DAP is the father of all racists," he says.
malaysiakini.com
A protester carrying a placard that reads, DAP Usah Suruh Kami Diamkan Laungan Azan (DAP Do not Ask Us To Silence The Sounds of Azan)
Image via MalaysiakiniMeanwhile, Pesaka chief Mohd Ali Rustam wants Internal Security Act (ISA) to be revived
“The rally is called because Malays are disappointed that Malays and Islam were insulted.
"They insult our PM and step on his picture. Our PM was democratically elected.
“We condemn Bersih 4 and the participants for stepping on (PAS president) Abdul Hadi Awang's picture," he says.
He also urges for the Internal Security Act, which allows detention without trial, to be revived.
malaysiakini.com
Concurrently, around 800 protesters, claimed that they will not be joining the rally at Padang Merbok and refuse to leave Petaling Street
FRU personnel arrive at Petaling Street to deal with the participants who want to enter the area, which has been cordoned off.
FRU personnel sound their bell for the second time, ordering the crowd to disperse.
The 800-strong crowd refuses to budge. The situation is tense.
malaysiakini.com
Buses misused for ferrying protesters, including the ones from National Service Department
National Service Department (PLKN) buses were sighted around town carrying protesters for Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu
Image via MalaysiakiniThe National Service Department (PLKN) denies it is supporting the rally, despite buses bearing its logo seen ferrying participants into town.
It says the buses are managed by third party bus operators and are only hired by the department on a contractual basis.
"PLKN stresses that the use of the buses for the rally is not our responsibility. We also did not approve any applications to use the bus for Himpunan Rakyat (Bersatu)," says the department.
malaysiakini.com
Trouble brews as the 'reds' insist on going through Petaling Street despite police ban
Some 300 participants want to enter Petaling Street but the police have prevented them. Negotiations are underway.
One of the leaders chants, “Chinese don’t be rude, this is the last warning”. Some of the participants are carrying a poster which reads, ‘Kekal Najib’ (Keep Najib).
malaysiakini.com
About 10,000 protesters from PWTC are heading towards Padang Merbok
Some from Kelantan carry musical instruments like the gong and flute to entertain all during the march.
Others carry placards reading: "Cina DAP jangan kurang ajar di Malaysia" (Don't be rude in Malaysia, DAP Chinese) and "DAP pengkhianat bangsa" (DAP are traitors).
malaysiakini.com
Confusion breaks as a Taylor's University bus is seen at Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu with protesters walking out of the bus
A Taylor's University bus being used to transport Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu protesters
Image via Malaysiakini/FacebookTaylor's University has issued an official statement saying that the management is not in any way involved with Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu and that the bus was contracted to a third party, Wawasan Sutera, that have allegedly used the bus for rally purposes.
Taylor's University official statement after their bus was found to be ferrying protesters to Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu
Image via Taylor's UniversityA large number of protesters have started marching towards Padang Merbok
Protesters start to march from PWTC to Padang Merbok.
Protestors also rush to collect pre-made placards reading: "Rakyat bersatu mempertahankan kerajaan pilihan rakyat" (People united behind a government elected by the people) and "Rakyat bersatu menolak penghinaan agama Islam sebagai agama persekutuan" (People united to reject insult on Islam as the religion of the federation).
There are 1,500 participants at Padang Merbok. An announcement instructs them to collect their rice and curry lunch at a tent set up for the day.
malaysiakini.com
The 'reds' are denied entry when trying to break the rules by entering Petaling Street
Protesters trying to enter Petaling Street despite the warnings by the police force
Image via MalaysiakiniPolice stop a group of 200 red-clad protestors from entering Petaling Street.
"We're not planning to go on a rampage or riot, we just want to go in," one protestor yells out in frustration to no avail.
Unable to enter, they march to Pasar Seni while chanting "Hidup Islam" (Long live Islam) and "Hidup Melayu" (Long live Malays), and then back to the Petaling Street entrance.
malaysiakini.com
Kuala Lumpur police force all ready to stop any protester from entering Petaling Street
Image via MalaysiakiniUMNO man Ahmad Maslan raises his protest spirit with loud cheers of "Hidup Najib" (Long live Najib), "Hidup Melayu" (Long live Malays), "Hidup Umno" (Long live Umno) and "Long live Barisan" (Long live Barisan)
"Our struggle is for the Malay race but we still respect other races. Our struggle is for Islam and for our beloved country," said Ahmad, before leading the participants in chants of "Allahuakbar" (God is great).
"This is our soil, our land, the land where our blood has spilled," said Kelantan opposition leader Alwi Che Mat, before stomping his feet on the stage and chanting “Allahuakbar”.
He then uttered Islamic invocations and yells "reject DAP".
malaysiakini.com
Surprisingly, a rally-goer claimed that Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu is not a Bersih 4 counter rally
More than 50 people in red T-shirts are headed for Padang Merbok. Among them is Kamaruzaman Baba, 52, who is accompanied by seven family members.
"We are not here to create chaos or belittle other races," he says, adding that the rally is not to counter Bersih 4.
No hints of unity as some 5000 protesters chant ‘Hidup Melayu’
Racially charged posters are all the rage at the Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu
Image via Malaysiakini/FacebookAbout 5,000 people have gathered here. Most are from Perak, Kelantan, Kedah and Terengganu.
They chant "Hidup Melayu" (Long live Malays) and carry placards reading "Ini Tanah Melayu" (This is Malay land) written in Jawi script.
"I am protesting against DAP which insulted Islam, Malays, our rulers and the prime minister. I am warning them not to be insolent.
"Everything will be gone if the Malays run amok. Don't betray or be rude to Malays," said Mahadi Muhammad.
malaysiakini.com
Dos and don'ts of Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu have been distributed to protesters
Among others, participants are barred from putting pictures of anyone on the ground and stomping on them.
Two individuals were probed for stomping on a picture of Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak and PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang at the Bersih 4 rally last month.
'Reds' are not allowed into Low Yat shopping mall
Several men enter the shopping mall carrying red T-shirts and are stopped by plainclothes security personnel and policemen.
The mall’s public communication head Gary Lam tells the media the five have been asked to leave the premises.
Tension is a bit high at this shopping mall as it was the flashpoint of a racial clash last month.
malaysiakini.com
Protesters destroy 'Celaka DAP rasis' and other anti-opposition party posters
About 3,000 rally-goers clad in red gather at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) which is also where the Umno headquarters is located. Those approached say they are from Pekan, Pahang.
They carry placards reading ‘Menolak perhimpunan Bersih’ (Reject the Bersih rally) and "Menolak campur tangan asing" (Reject foreign intervention), while blowing vuvuzelas.
A handful of participants start ripping up and burning posters reading: "Celaka DAP rasis" (Damn the racist DAP).
malaysiakini.com
Ironically, Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu protesters are championing Malay race
A group of youths from Batu Pahat arrive carrying placards reading: "Lu jangan cabar hak Melayu" (Don't challenge Malay rights), "Jangan cabar bangsa dan agama kami" (Don't challenge our race and religion) and "Bangkit Melayu Bangkit" (Rise, Malays, rise).
One of them also cry out: "Hidup Melayu" (Long Live Malays)
The youths are causing a din by blowing into vuvuzelas.
malaysiakini.com
UMNO information chief Datuk Ahmad Maslan spotted in red at Jalan Conlay
Umno information chief Ahmad Maslan visits Jalan Conlay rally meeting point on a motorbike. He is accompanied by about 20 motorcyclists.
He says that he wants to send a clear message that people should unite on Malaysia Day.
About 500 of red shirts are seen hanging outside the National Craft Complex together with 100 motorcyclists near the entrance.
malaysiakini.com
The number of protesters outside Masjid Wilayah hikes up to 3000
There is a hive of activity outside the Federal Territory Mosque near Jalan Duta, where almost 100 chartered buses have brought over 3,000 participants for today's rally.
"We collected money... We are not from Umno. There's no allowance, only food and water are provided," said 56-year-old Aina Mohamad.
Meanwhile on the steps leading to the mosque, one of the participants hands out bandanas.
There are two types of headbands, one with 'Tanah Melayu' written on it and another with 'Pantang dicabar'.
malaysiakini.com
'Red shirts' convoy from Gua Musang gathers near Masjid Negara while waiting for more to join
According to Zabedah Ali, 45, her group left Gua Musang at 10.30pm yesterday and arrived here at 4am. Many of them are from Felda Gua Musang in Kelantan.
“We didn’t get to sleep much,” says Zabedah, while having her breakfast prepared for the group along with some tea.
She tells Malaysiakini that the group came in a convoy of 11 buses.
malaysiakini.com
Meanwhile, Jalan Conlay which is supposed to be the controversial 'reds' gathering point, still looks empty
Yesterday, rally leader Jamal Md Yunos said the crowd will gather from 10am.
The gathering point for the Malay NGOs looks quiet with about 20 police motorcycle parked outside of the National Craft Complex.
malaysiakini.com
Simultaneously, approximately 500 police officers and Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) members have piled in around Pavilion mall
The huge presence of the police has attracted attention from early shoppers and tourists alike. However, no red shirt protesters are seen in the area.
malaysiakini.com
Hours before the rally is set to start, around 50 buses were seen parked near Masjid Wilayah and protesters have already started gathering around PWTC
About 50 chartered buses are parked outside the Masjid Wilayah (Federal Territory mosque) near Jalan Duta. Buses are also seen on the side road leading to the mosque.
At PWTC, hundreds of protesters are seen milling around.
malaysiakini.com
Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu to gather in downtown Kuala Lumpur at 3pm today
Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu is lead by the National Silat Federation (Pesaka) chief Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam
Image via MalaysiakiniAccording to some reports, as many as 2,000 buses are transporting thousands of Umno supporters from around the country to the rally.
Rally goers are expected to march from three areas to Padang Merbok on Jalan Parlimen - Masjid Negara, PWTC where Umno headquarters is based, and the Kuala Lumpur Crafts Centre on Jalan Conlay.
A fourth gathering point is at the Federal Territories Mosque on Jalan Tunku Abdul Halim (Jalan Duta) but participants here will later be bussed to PWTC for the march
malaysiakini.com
15 SEPT: 20 NGOs reach out to PM Najib Razak, urging him to stop the 16 September rally
20 NGOs to submit an open letter to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak to put an end to the September 16 rally.
Image via MalaysiakiniA coalition of NGOs has issued an open letter addressed to Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, urging him to put a stop to the ‘red shirt rally’ slated for Wednesday.
The letter by the group Otai Reformis and endorsed by 19 other groups even compared the rally organisers to militants of the self-proclaimed ‘Islamic State’ (Isis), and said Najib should have stepped in from the day reports emerged on the racial issues being played up.
“From the first day it has been exposed that there are racial issues (being played up), Datuk Seri (Najib) should have taken stern action against the group leaders, such as those taken against the Isis supporters, because their ideology is similar,” said the letter signed by Otai Reformis spokesperson Mustapa Mansor (photo).
malaysiakini.com
Responding to Otai Reformasi's heroic plans on protecting the Chinese traders, should anything untoward happen during the 16 September rally, IGP warns them to stay out of police affairs
“Don’t do police work,” inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar cautioned the groups today.
He added while the police commend them for wanting to ensure that nobody is harmed they, however, should not take the law into their own hands.
“So I warn them not to interfere, or they would face action,” Khalid told Malaysiakini.
“Only the police are authorised to take action against those who threaten peace and security,” he added.
malaysiakini.com
14 SEPT: IGP: “Red shirt” rally is legal
The Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu or "red shirt" rally on Wednesday is now legal under the Peaceful Assembly Act, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar said today, after organisers obtained permission from Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to use Padang Merbok for the gathering.
"Now, the rally will be allowed to go on. Although personally, I don't agree to demonstrations but we will allow it as it fulfills the criteria under the law," he told a press conference in Kuala Lumpur today.
"We will be deploying enough manpower and we are capable of ensuring the safety and security of everyone."
themalaysianinsider.com
Gearing up for Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu on 16 September, UMNO division chief Jamal Md Yunos took his fellow ‘red shirts' for a ride around Kuala Lumpur on 13 September
Gabungan NGO-NGO Malaysia chief and the red shirt rally members during their convoy around Kuala Lumpur, yesterday.
Image via Free Malaysia TodayA motorcycle convoy rode through the city centre yesterday with riders wearing red “Bersih For Peace” t-shirts to allay fears about a planned rally on Sept 16 by mostly Malay organisations, according to media reports.
The motorcyclists paraded through Chow Kit, Dataran Merdeka and the Bukit Bintang areas, according to a report in Berita Harian.
Yesterday’s motorcycle convoy was held in support of Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu, said Jamal, and to demonstrate that “we know the laws of the country and did not disturb other road users, and it went on peacefully”, according to the Berita Harian report quoted by Malay Mail Online.
Jamal said the unity rally was in support of the government and a counter to “certain parties who want to depose the government through street protests”.
Jamal had earlier renamed the rally to Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu with a set of new objectives. The rally was previously known as Himpunan Maruah Melayu.
Gabungan NGO-NGO Malaysia chief Jamal Md Yunos has been up in arms, promoting a set of racially charged objectives for his Himpunan Maruah Melayu (Rally for Malay Dignity) on Malaysia Day.
However, giving in to an interesting twist of events, Jamal has now renamed the rally as Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu (United People's rally) and created two, less racist objectives as follows:
1. To instill patriotism among Malaysians and unite the nation.
2. To urge the government to take action against all those that intended to defame and topple the government.
He also said that the group will be following the lead of the National Silat Federation (Pesaka) on the day of the rally. However, Pesaka has denied having any connection to the rally.
Persekutuan Silat Kebangsaan (Pesaka) president Ali Rustam today said that the rally organised by the group on Sept 16 has nothing to do with the Himpunan Maruah Melayu (Rally for Malay Dignity).
Therefore, Ali said those who want to incite racial violence should stay away from the Sept 16 rally by the silat group.
"Those who are angry on a racial basis (marah perkauman) and want to create trouble, don't come," he said at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur today.
He said those who want to attend the silat rally, called ‘Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu’ (United People's rally), need not wear red nor be Malay.
malaysiakini.com
Meanwhile, UMNO has allegedly issued a nationwide order to gather its members for the “red shirt” rally, despite official statements endorsing otherwise
The letter from Umno executive secretary Datuk Ab Rauf Yusof directing representatives from state liaison committees to attend meeting on September 4 to discuss arrangements for the ‘red shirt’ rally, as sighted by The Malaysian Insider
Image via The Malaysian InsiderThe UMNO headquarters issued a notice to its divisions to mobilise members to attend the “red shirt” rally on September 16, despite official statements that the Malay party has not endorsed the controversial gathering.
In a letter sighted by The Malaysian Insider, representatives from state liaison committees were to attend a meeting on September 4 to discuss arrangements for the rally which will take place in Kuala Lumpur.
The letter was signed by UMNO executive secretary Datuk Ab Rauf Yusof and the meeting was held at UMNO’s HQ in Menara Dato Onn at 9am on Wednesday.
Three days ago, UMNO president and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said the party did not endorse the rally but would not stop members from attending it.
themalaysianinsider.com
Fearing a bloodbath, a group of 20 NGOs submitted a memorandum to Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah on 11 September, requesting him to put a stop to the rally
20 NGOs have submitted a memorandum to Agong seeking intervention to stop the 16 September rally
Image via The Malaysian InsiderA group of 20 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) today submitted a memorandum to Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah, seeking the King's intervention to stop the September 16 “red shirt” rally on fears that it will turn violent.
President of Pro Rakyat Pertubuhan Kebajikan dan Kemajuan Rakyat Selangor Khairul Anwar Othman said that the NGOs have no qualms if the rally on September 16 is held in a peaceful manner, but the evidence gathered so far indicated otherwise.
Activist Abdul Razak Ismail, meanwhile, said that in addition to lodging police reports and submitting the memorandum to the King, the NGOs will also go down to the ground to assure the Chinese people and traders of their safety.
themalaysianinsider.com
11 SEPT: The purpose of Himpunan Maruah Melayu:
According to Gabungan NGO-NGO Malaysia leader Jamal Md Yunos, Himpunan Maruah Melayu will be held for three main reasons, namely;
1. The slogans used during Bersih 4.0 that have apparently 'insulted Malay leadership.'
2. Since Bersih 4.0 was very 'kurang ajar' (rude) (towards the Malay leaders), this rally is held to teach a 'lesson to DAP Chinese' to be respectful towards Malay race.
3. To oppose Bersih 4.0, that challenged the political power of Malays.
Himpunan Maruah Melayu to teach the Chinese to not be 'kurang ajar' (rude) towards the Malay community
At a press conference today, Sungai Besar Umno division chief Jamal Md Yunos also “thanked” Bersih 4 rally-goers for opening the eyes of the Malays after the great disrespect they showed to the country’s Malay leaders when they brandished insulting slogans and messages.
“We are going down to Bukit Bintang, to send a clear message to the Chinese of DAP to not be ‘kurang ajar’ to the Malay race,” he said.
He also pointed out that 90 per cent of Bersih 4 rally goers were made up of Chinese members of the community while those of other races who participated had been “brainwashed” by the Chinese of DAP.
After insisting that he does not know the organisers of the red shirt rally, Jamal, suddenly, popped the silence over the matter by naming Persatuan Silat Kebangsaan (Pesaka) as the group spearheading the rally
Gabungan NGO-NGO Malaysia chairperson Jamal Md Yunos has confirmed that the organiser of the Sept 16 red shirt rally is indeed the Persatuan Silat Kebangsaan (Pesaka).
“They are the organisers and they have made applications with the police and the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to hold the rally,” Jamal told Malaysiakini.
“Gabungan NGO-NGO Melayu received an invitation from Pesaka (to join the rally) and we will give our utmost support to ensure that the rally becomes a success.”
malaysiakini.com
Himpunan Maruah Melayu is set to be held on the 16 September, which also happens to be Malaysia Day
Jamal (photo) said they are expecting a turnout of about 300,000, with 30,000 coming from Malay NGOs.
Reported to be a counter to Bersih 4, a mammoth gathering held over the Merdeka Day weekend, the 'red shirt' rally is scheduled to start at 11am on Malaysia Day, which falls on Sept 16, and is a public holiday.
The red shirts are scheduled to gather at Jalan Bukit Bintang and march to Petaling Street, heading towards Padang Merbok before ending their gathering at midnight.
themalaymailonline.com
A warning has been issued to all non-Malays to avoid KL's golden triangle on Malaysia Day to avoid provoking the red shirt rally goers with their presence
Non-Muslims should avoid the city on September 16 to prevent provoking the red-shirted participants of the planned rally for Malays, activist Datuk Jamal Md Yunos said today.
“These kinds of rallies are demonstrations. So those who come may be over-emotional.
“If they see a rival group during the rally, of course there will be provocation,” the Gabungan NGO-NGO Melayu chairman was quoted telling news portal Malaysiakini.
“And when there is provocation, we are concerned that unwanted incidents will occur,” said Jamal, who is also Sungai Besar Umno division chief.
themalaymailonline.com
Traders, taxi drivers and hoteliers around Petaling Street and Bukit Bintang are forced to close their businesses on Malaysia Day in fear of uproars during the protest
Kuala Lumpur Hawkers and Petty Traders Association chairman Datuk Ang Say Tee said about 90% of the traders in Petaling Street or Chinatown would not open for business next Wednesday – Malaysia Day – when the rally is set to take place.
Hotels have started receiving room cancellations.
“I will definitely suffer losses. We are already seeing fewer tourists and less business nowadays,” he lamented, describing the red shirt rally as a nuisance.
What started as an anti-Bersih demonstration, has spiralled into the promise of a racially instigated protest
In the days leading up to Bersih 4.0, two weeks ago, a racially charged group sprouted and organised what seemed like a violent demonstration.
The group, led by the coalition of Malay non-governmental organisations' chairperson, Datuk Jamal Md Yunos, gathered in front of the Sogo shopping mall, sporting bright red t-shirts with the phrase 'Keamanan' on it.
Ironically enough, the 'Keamanan' red t-shirts group started beating each other up with wooden sticks and limestone bricks reasoning it as a preparation for the Bersih 4.0 rally, should there be any ruckus during the peaceful rally.
When the self-defense demonstration received a lot of negative comments, Jamal was quick to rectify that the whole debacle was just a 'silat demonstration'
Interestingly enough, he stressed that his members are fully aware of the possibility of assaults and are equipped with accident insurance should they decide to attend the Bersih 4.0 rally.
"If we want to hold a rally, we might as well be prepared. Yesterday was a demonstration to show that we are ready for any possibilities.
"The Malays have silat and we are aware that whoever learns it, know that it is meant for self-defence and not for attacking," he said.
Not only did they practice with sticks and bricks, they also claimed that they will be training with 'parang', purely for self-defense purposes of course
Violent demonstration in front of Sogo shopping mall prior to the Bersih 4.0 rally
Image via Free Malaysia Today“There will be a closed door training for our members tonight and they will use parang and swords for self-defence,” he was quoted telling The Star Online yesterday.
“We will not initiate violence unless we are attacked by the 'yellow' team, then our people in red will be able to defend themselves,” he said, referring to the Bersih 4 demonstrators who have chosen yellow as their colour.
He reportedly pointed out that past rallies by polls reform group Bersih 2.0 had turned violent.
themalaymailonline.com
The sudden surge of groups training with sticks, bricks and 'parang' for Bersih 4.0 rally wasn't well received by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar
The IGP took the opportunity to not only warn the red shirts group but also anyone else that incites and resorts to violence during the Bersih 4.0 rally.
"We will take action against anyone who provokes other parties and this includes the red shirts," said the Inspector-General of Police.
Khalid said any party, be it Bersih or the red shirts would be dealt with to the fullest extent of the law if they were involved in acts of violence.
The police are committed to maintaining law and order. Our priority is the safety and security of the people. Any act of provocation or violence will not be tolerated," he said.
After receiving both warning and advice from the police, the 'reds' decided to not attend the Bersih 4.0 rally
"After having our statements taken and hearing KL police chief Datuk Tajuddin Md Isa and Dang Wangi police chief ACP Zainol Samah's explanation on the preparations for the rally, we agree the call it off and give our full trust to the police," he said.
This comes after police recorded a statement from its leader, Datuk Jamal Md Yunos, at the Dang Wangi police headquarters this afternoon.
Jamal was called up by the police over the group's **intention to hold the rally against Bersih 4 and the 'martial arts' demonstration that was held in front of the Sogo shopping complex on Tuesday.**
themalaysianinsider.com
The police force is not budging from their decision to bar the 16 September rally
Deputy inspector-general of police Noor Rashid Ibrahim said the Sept 16 rally by the red shirts is barred due to security reasons, Bernama reported.
He added organisers had not sought permission from the police as yet, but no approval will be granted.
"If the rally proceeds, the police will control and ensure they do not disturb or destroy property or people carrying out their daily activities in the area," he was quoted as saying.
He said 2,000 police personnel would be deployed to control the rally.
malaysiakini.com
Following that, invitations to the red shirt rally started circulating online and seditious posters popped up in Kuala Lumpur
Responding to that, Otai Reformasi, a veteran activists group lodged a police report and urged the authorities to stop the red shirts rally, publicised to be held on 16 September and 10 October and to take action against the seditious promotional materials.
The group's spokesperson Ronnie Liu said while they respect the right to assemble, organisers of the counter rallies have gone overboard by threatening violence.
He claimed the materials were spreading racial hatred and promoting unrest.
The materials label the Bersih 4 protest as a "Chinese affair" and called for Malays to hold their own.
malaysiakini.com
Responding to the police report, the Kuala Lumpur police stressed that the 'Cina Turun Bersih, Sedialah Bermandi Darah' posters will be investigated under Sedition Act 1948
The report quoted Kuala Lumpur deputy police chief Law Hong Soon saying that the images and text used in the posters is an implied threat, and the police are investigating it under the Sedition Act 1948.
"He stressed that the police is keeping a close eye on developments, but to date have yet to receive any notification of a rally," the report said.
The report said that so far, no party has come forward to identify themselves as the event’s organiser, although the campaign materials have gone viral on social media.
The posters have the words 'tanah tumpah darahku' - a line from the the national anthem which literally means 'the land where my blood spills' - with a picture of a man in a silat pose.
malaysiakini.com
Contrary to what the red shirt supporters have claimed, many prominent leaders, mostly Malay, have expressed their utter disappointment and anger over the 16 September rally:
While the 'reds' are boasting about championing Malay dignity and uniting them, several Malay NGOs have slammed the rally
Himpunan Maruah Melayu, organised by Pesaka set to be held on Malaysia Day at several areas in Kuala Lumpur
Image via Free Malaysia TodaySeveral Malay non-governmental organisations today rejected the September 16 Himpunan Maruah Melayu, saying the rally's agenda and its participants do not represent their community.
Permuafakatan Perkampungan Melayu Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur (Muafakat) president Ishak Surin also accused the rally’s unnamed organisers of being "dishonest" and "superficial" in their claims to protect Malay interests.
"They do not represent us. To those who claimed to care for Malay interests, where were they when the Malays were driven out of their houses in Kampung Banda Dalam and Kampung Puah?" he said.
Representatives from Gerakan Intelektual Rakyat (Gatera), Seniman Paksi Rakyat (Paksi) and other groups similarly rejected any association with the rally and its claim to represent the Malays.
themalaymailonline.com
Former Malaysian premier, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad thinks red shirt rally is unnecessary
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad today warned against the so-called Himpunan Maruah Melayu on September 16, citing previous unrest in Bangkok, Thailand to illustrate the dangers of rival protests.
He also criticised the supporters of the protest for saying it was necessary to counter the Bersih 4 rally last month for purportedly being dominated by the Chinese.
"There is no need. This isn't a question about race, it is about overthrowing the government,” the former prime minister told reporters after arriving at the Subang Airport today.
themalaymailonline.com
Former PKR de facto leader, Anwar Ibrahim classifies the rally as a moral failure for UMNO
"The statement by Ahmad Zahid and a few Umno leaders that Umno members are free to join the rally shows a moral failure by their party leadership," he said.
Anwar said while it is the right of all communities, including the Malays, to defend their interests, it is inappropriate to fuel racial sentiments.
"We should not fuel racial issues as planned by the red shirts gathering on Sept 16 that is objected by Islam and Malay culture," he said.
"The rakyat should not be fooled or be taken in by such divisive tactics," he said.
malaysiakini.com
Agreeing with her father, PKR vice- president Nurul Izzah Anwar believes that the nature of the rally is racist and goes against everything that the country needs right now
Labelling the planned red T-shirt rally as racist, PKR vice-president ,Nurul Izzah Anwar has urged police to take stern action against its organisers.
“The rally is deeply troubling, fomenting concerns of racial provocation at a time when unity is sorely needed in facing Malaysia’s many adversities.”
“The excuses from the Himpunan Maruah Melayu gathering are so superfluous that they range from being a response to Low Yat, Bersih 4 to recovery of Umno’s pride — a dangerous list of woes that eventually links back to race.
therakyatpost.com
Selangor PAS have also rejected Himpunan Maruah Melayu
Selangor PAS today issued a ban on its members from attending the red shirts protest dubbed ‘Himpunan Maruah Melayu’ on Sept 16.
Selangor PAS secretary Mohd Khairuddin Othman said the party was against rallies that were racial in nature.
"We are against any racial rallies that can spark racial tension.
"We disagree and will not compromise on racism as the basis of PAS' struggle is not based on race," he said in a statement today.
malaysiakini.com
With UMNO subtly showing support for the red shirts rally, its coalition partner, MCA is completely against what the 'reds' stand for
Ong said Malaysians must identify themselves with the nation and not by race or religion.
"At a time when the nation is facing consecutive economic challenges, the rakyat should appreciate this special day even more and take the pragmatic path by staying united to face the challenges ahead together.
"The urgent need for us now is to seriously find ways and directions to alleviate the tension among the **ethnicities so as to prevent it from brewing into a racial confrontation," Ong added.
malaysiakini.com
Unconvinced by the 'reds' claiming that the rally is to champion Malays, DAP supremo Lim Kit Siang said that the protest is for Najib supporters
This is according to DAP supremo Lim Kit Siang (photo) who said: "The red shirts 'Kebangkitan Maruah Melayu' rally appeals only to Malays - but not all Malays as it is specifically targeted at Malays who support Najib."
"All the talk distorting Bersih 4 into a racial affair, such as alleging that it was a Chinese show-of-force against Malay political power, were concocted by Umno propagandists and strategists from their air-conditioned offices after the holding of Bersih 4 rally.
"But it is completely different with the 'Kebangkitan Maruah Melayu' rally, which sparked fears of racial conflict from the very beginning of its racially-charged publicity campaign," said Lim.
malaysiakini.com
Oblivious to the disagreements from various parties over the red shirt rally, Jamal has come up with some interesting justifications of his own
Gabungan NGO-NGO Malaysia chairman Datuk Jamal Md Yunos was quoted by Umno-owned daily Utusan Malaysia recently as saying that the September 16 rally was a result of the “many slogans insulting the Malay leadership” during the 34-hour Bersih 4 rally held in the run-up to the Merdeka Day celebrations.
The Bersih 4 rally has been branded by its opponents as a demonstration dominated by the Chinese to challenge the political power of the Malays.
“Because of the rudeness of Bersih 4, that is why we are gathering at Bukit Bintang to give a clear message to the DAP Chinese not to be impudent to the Malay race,” he told a news conference at a landmark of Malay culture, the Kelab Sultan Sulaiman here.
themalaymailonline.com
PM Najib has given green light to UMNO members that wish to attend the rally, disregarding the police force's ban on the street protest
Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak said Umno members are free to join the Sept 16 red-shirts rally but reminded them that they must follow the law.
"No, (I won't stop Umno members from joining the rally).
"It is a free country, as long as they observe the law. No one is above the law, including Umno members. They are not above the law," said Najib, who is also Umno president.
Najib also denied that Umno is the organiser for the rally although he admitted that there are NGOs affiliated with party leaders who feel compelled to go to the rally.
malaysiakini.com
Expect for the venue and date of the rally, very little detail has been revealed by the so called organisers of Himpunan Maruah Melayu
16 September rally organiser refuses to reveal details of the planned rally
Less than a week before the scheduled 'red shirt' rally, the National Malay Martial Arts Association (Pesaka) has still not released any statement on the gathering nor confirm it is the organiser.
When asked if Pesaka is the organiser of the ‘red shirt’ rally, its secretary-general Megat Zulkarnain Omardin told Malaysiakini that he reserved his comment.
"We will have a meeting tonight and most likely, will call for a big press conference tomorrow," he said.
malaysiakini.com
Himpunan Maruah Melayu rally t-shirts' sale skyrocketing with over 600, 000 from around the country
Jamal added that the group has received over 600,000 orders for the T-shirts nationwide and is expected to sell 30,000 over this weekend.
“We have over 5,000 shirts printed and ready to be sold. We have got overwhelming response with pre-orders reaching thousands coming in. We think we need to print more,” he told reporters who had turned up to cover the Umno supreme council meeting.
Jamail said the earlier batch was sold out because of the outpouring of support from Malaysians to join the rally.
themalaymailonline.com
After accusing the non-Malays of being 'kurang ajar' (rude) towards the Malay leaders, Jamal is now cordially inviting Chinese and Indians to join Himpunan Maruah Melayu
Seditious posters that circulated when invitations for the red shirt rally was publicised online
Image via Keeboon Kok/Facebook"This is a Malay rally and we are inviting Chinese and Indians who share the same understanding and thoughts to join us.
"They are the ones who helped maintain the voice of the people in the last general elections," said the spokesperson for the Sept 16 rally when met at the Dang Wangi police station today.
"If you want to participate do not wear yellow," he said curtly before proceeding to give his statement to the police.
malaysiakini.com