Restrictions imposed on organisers of public assemblies are a small price to pay for public order and national security, says Malay rights NGO Perkasa.

"From what I see, the government is trying its level best to fulfil (current) demands to strengthen democracy,” Perkasa president Ibrahim Ali said.

NONE "We can’t take it lightly when it comes to security because, as we have seen in other countries, terrorist threats are quite serious, what more with our country that is multi-ethnic and multi-religious. So, we sacrifice a little bit, but we gain almost 98 percent.”

The Peaceful Assembly Bill 2011 was tabled in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Mohd Nazri Abdul Aziz and is slated for debate tomorrow.

The Bill will replace public assembly restrictions stipulated in the Police Act 1967.

In tandem with the Peaceful Assembly Bill, amendments were also tabled to repeal corresponding provisions in the Police Act, including the requirement for a permit to hold an assembly.

Supporting the Bill, Ibrahim said it would be effective in tackling unruly assemblies as there were "black sheep" who often abused the constitutionally guaranteed right.

NONE "Even now, (organisers of) peaceful gatherings do not require permits but (just have to) fill in the form for (their) details. This is to help the police or security to assist them, for an example (to guide) traffic," said the Pasir Mas MP.

Asked if the restrictions would pose difficulties for Perkasa - which often holds its demonstrations at mosques - Ibrahim said: "Yes, no problem because if you want to have gatherings, then we can have them in a stadium, there are many around."

‘Wait 50 more years ..’

He reiterated that restrictions should also be imposed on small gatherings that could result in havoc.

"Like what happened in London, first it was a small gathering but look what happened. Who took advantage? The robbers!

" NONE In this country, we have millions of immigrants, foreign workers, so we cannot ensure that even if there are 10 people gathered by the sidewalk, somebody (won’t) throw a stone. I don’t want this trouble. I want to make sure this country is peaceful.”

Ibrahim believes that such restrictions can be lifted, perhaps in 50 years when society is more mature, but for now, national security is of primary importance.

"(What good are) human rights, freedom of speech and gatherings if country is in chaos? What we are enjoying in this country is better than (in any) other country.

"Overall it’s a positive move. After 54 years we have come to this stage. Maybe in the next 25 years, people will be educated and (we) can (enjoy) full freedom, but for the moment, Malaysia still needs time to educate its citizens."