The inspector-general of police, Ismail Omar, will meet attorney-general Abdul Ghani Patail to give his views on the proposal to amend Section 27 of the Police Act 1967 on the freedom

of assembly.

Speaking to reporters after attending the joint Malaysia and Merdeka Day celebration at Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur, Ismail said his views would encompass aspects on how to balance public order, the public freedom to speak and to assemble.

“These matters are crucial for the public to ensure the peaceful situation is preserved,” he said.

Meanwhile, in a press statement today, Ismail also revealed that the police have began discussions with the Home Ministry over the proposed changes to security laws.

“The process to review outdated and irrelevant laws especially with regards to the people’s rights to assemble and free speech have began with discussions with the Home Ministry being initiated by its the Home Minister (Hishammuddin Hussein).”

Yesterday, Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak announced that the  government would also review Section 27 of the Police Act 1967 by taking into account provisions in Article 10 of the federal constitution on freedom of assembly, but with a principle which strongly opposed street demonstration.

The prime minister said the approval to assemble would be given in accordance with methods to be outlined later which would take into consideration international norms.

Ismail gave his assurance that the police force would support the premier’s reform efforts.

“The Royal Malaysian Police is confident that it will fulfill the aspirations of the prime minister to balance  the right to free speech and assembly without compromising public safety and order,” he said.