The police have finally granted All Women's Action Society (Awam) permission to hold an anti-rape event themed 'Citizens Against Rape: Make Public Places Safe - Towards a Violence-Free Community'.

Event co-ordinator Maria Abdullah said the permit, which was issued today, allows Awam to hold the event at the KDU College in Damansara Jaya on Aug 3 between 2.30pm and 4.30pm.

"We tried to get a permit previously, but (our application) was rejected. Anyway, we are holding the event in a hall (this time), so there is actually no need for us to march," Maria said when contacted later.

Awam's original plan to hold an anti-rape march in Bangsar earlier this month was thwarted when Brickfields police would not issue a permit for a rally, to highlight citizens' concerns over violent and sexual crimes.

On July 19, Awam had to cancel its public awareness campaign scheduled to take place at the Mid Valley Exhibition Hall. The venue managers revoked permission when Awam could not produce a police permit.

A small group nevertheless gathered with banners outside the Bangsar Shopping Complex to highlight the fact that the event had been cancelled. Police moved in shortly to disperse the activists.

Programme highlights

The police have since been criticised for their lack of co-operation in working with the public to fight crime.

Meanwhile, Women and Family Development Minister, Shahrizat Abdul Jalil is expected to attend the Aug 3 event.

Among the programmes will be a presentation in memory of recent victims who had been brutally raped and murdered, including Nor Suzaily Mokhtar and Canny Ong.

Maria said in a statement that Awam hoped the event would mobilise public support and foster community involvement in the fight against rape.

"We also hope to provide the authorities with recommendations on improving the standard of security in public spaces and, as a long- term goal, to raise public awareness on proposed amendments to the law relating to rape," she added.