A Penang-based Malay non-governmental organisation hit out at PKR today for moving to hold a mammoth rally in Kuala Lumpur on Monday in support of Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim, who will face judgment in his Sodomy II trial that day.

The Penang Malay Congress (PMC), which claims to be an independent and politically impartial organisation, demanded that PKR cancels the rally - or face a drop in Malay community support for the party and its leaders.

NONE PMC, which claims to speak on behalf of the 640,000 Malays in Penang, said it saw no need for the Monday rally as Malaysians could evaluate the outcome of the verdict without having to participate in a huge protest.

PKR should allow the High Court judge to deliver his verdict on Anwar - whether guilty or not - in a peaceful manner, without any interference from any party, PMC president Rahmad Isahak said.

"A rally that is merely based on emotions will cause the dignity of the Malays to descend to the lowest level, and our race will be looked down upon by the other communities," Rahmad told a press conference in Penang today.

"We believe that Anwar, who is very experienced in legal matters, will not like to see his supporters attending the rally... he should issue a statement to appeal to his followers, especially those in PKR, not to destroy the future of the party."

'Rally will be a disaster for PKR'

Rahmad said if Anwar failed to hold back his supporters from taking part in the illegal rally, he would lose support from the people and that this was possible because many in PKR also did not wish to see the Permatang Pauh MP continue to direct the party as its de facto leader.

However, Rahmad noted that several Pakatan leaders have said that Anwar would go on to be prime minister, even if he was sne to jail, if the coalition take over Putrajaya.

"So, why do they need to encourage Anwar's supporters to rally? It will surely result in a disaster and a loss of dignity for the Malays.

"In a democratic country, let all political issues be resolved politically. Do not drag the rakyat in," he added.

Rahmad, a former staff member of the court in Penang, reminded the people that politicians were merely interested in whipping up support, influence and power, but they should realise that these should come directly from the rakyat.

He also questioned the stand of PAS and DAP on the issue, urging them to express their views as they were separate entities from PKR in their opposition coalition, unlike the BN.

"Do they also agree with this rally? If they do, then I believe such illegal protests will continue to dominate the country's political landscape... it will be seen as a people's uprising, even if actually based on political interests," Rahmad said.

"If this happens, Prime Minister Najib Razak must view the situation seriously and even consider the dissolution of Parliament to pave the way for a general election.

"And if this 901 rally really goes ahead, we urge the judge to postpone his decision, although this is entirely up to His Honour," he added.

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