Malaysians in Italy, France advised to avoid protest sites

Malaysians travelling to Italy and France are being advised to steer clear of student protest sites due to safety concerns and the possibility of being arrested by local authorities. Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan has not placed any travel restrictions on either country, but he urged Malaysians to remain cautious and avoid areas where demonstrations are occurring.

The protests are currently limited to particular routes and locations rather than entire cities like Paris and Rome. Foreign Minister Hasan concluded the 10th National General Assembly of Persatuan Solidariti Nasional (Persona) by emphasizing that there are no travel limitations at this time, but Malaysians should stay informed about the latest situation at their destinations and avoid major protest routes.

It has been reported that thousands of students in Italy have taken part in demonstrations demanding improvements to school conditions, following similar protests in France since late September. Although the demonstrations in Italy have largely remained peaceful, there was an exception in the northwestern city of Turin, where dozens of demonstrators engaged in violent behavior, throwing stones, glass bottles, and flares at security personnel.

Hasan also cautioned Malaysians against engaging in the demonstrations to prevent the risk of arrest, noting that travelers must adhere to local laws and heed any instructions issued by authorities during their stay in Italy and France.