Activists protest govt’s pace in reforming Peaceful Assembly Act

Around 20 activists protested outside the Malaysian home ministry, criticizing the government's sluggish pace in reforming the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012. Mandiri, Himpunan Advokasi Rakyat Malaysia, Suaram, and Bersih, collectively known as the civil society groups, handed a memorandum to Omar Mokhtar, a representative from the home minister's office.

The groups had previously met with home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail in September, expecting further engagement on the proposed reforms. However, they claimed that there has been no meaningful follow-up, expressing frustration over the government's silence.

The activists demanded a stakeholder engagement committee on PAA reforms, urging the adoption of ten UN principles and guidelines on peaceful assemblies. They also criticized Pakatan Harapan (PH) for failing to implement reforms it had championed during its time in opposition, including amendments to the PAA. They urged PH to utilize its remaining government time to fulfill the promises it had made.

Haram president Brendon Gan warned that continued delays could result in the loss of support, especially among young and progressive voters. He suggested that the Madani government would be better off amending the PAA before the opposition period, as they would inevitably become the ones opposing the government. Omar Mokhtar, the representative, pledged to study the memorandum and its demands, indicating openness to further discussions with the groups.