DBKL ticked off for being unreasonable over Dataran Merdeka events

A human rights activist asks if family picnics at the public square also need approval under a city by-law.

DBKL ticked off for being unreasonable over Dataran Merdeka events

The National Youth Federation of Malaysia accused the city authorities of disrupting a peaceful book-reading and discussion event at Dataran Merdeka last Sunday.

PETALING JAYA: A requirement by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) for all gatherings at Dataran Merdeka to obtain official approval has been described as unreasonable and an example of selective enforcement.

A human rights activist, lawyer P Rajsurian, said a recent peaceful book-reading and discussion session which was disrupted by enforcement officers could have qualified as a social activity permitted under the bylaw cited by city hall.

He said DBKL’s enforcement seemed selective as many other social activities were allowed to go on undisturbed.

“If you go to Dataran Merdeka, especially on weekends, you will see many people engaging in social events like picnicking without being disturbed,” he told FMT. “Do those who picnic now need to obtain permits as well?”

Rajsurian also said the disruption raises serious concerns about how the authorities interpret the constitutional rights on freedom of movement, speech, and assembly.

DISYORKAN UNTUK ANDA :

Ayuh Malaysia, Kita Merajuk

On Tuesday, DBKL said that all events at Dataran Merdeka, regardless of nature, require the mayor’s prior approval, citing a city by-law which prohibits speeches, demonstrations, campaigns, or political and social activities without a permit.

Events involving public assemblies must also obtain police approval.

DBKL’s statement came after the National Youth Federation of Malaysia claimed that a peaceful book-reading and discussion event at Dataran Merdeka was disrupted last Saturday.

Nalini Elumalai, a senior programme officer with Article 19 Malaysia, said the latest incident showed a continuing intolerance toward freedom of expression. She called for open dialogue on the issue.

“The government should recognise and respect Dataran Merdeka as a legitimate venue for public gatherings and discussions, ensuring it is afforded the same level of access as any other public space in the country,” she said.