Defence Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is confident the police will be able to maintain law and order during the planned July 9 assembly without the need for the armed forces to take over the task of maintaining security.

gerakan umno zahid hamidi penang penanti pc 150509 01 "Our powers are limited; we can only take over the task of safeguarding the country's security if the Yang di-Pertuan Agong declares an emergency," he said.

He was commenting on the armed forces' preparations in helping the police control the assembly this Saturday.

Ahmad Zahid, however, hoped there would not be any declaration of emergency.

"I am very confident the police can enforce the Emergency Ordinance to rein in any trouble on that day," he said.

Ahmad Zahid urged the public, in particular, armed forces personnel to stay away from the demonstration and not support it.

"The Yang di-Pertuan Agong had clearly asked the people of Malaysia not to take part in the assembly. It must be obeyed," he said.

He also urged the organisers involved, be they 'yellow or red shirt' to not do anything against the law.

Ahmad Zahid had earlier launched a training session for the Artiste Platoon of the Territorial Army at Regiment 515 here.

About 22 local artistes including the country's top performer, Siti Nurhaliza, were involved in the first session of the training today.

- Bernama

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