Respect Sabah's harmony, Bung says over 2 rallies on New Year's eve

Summary

• Bung Moktar Radin has urged all parties to prioritise Sabah’s harmony and follow the law after two opposing rallies have been announced for New Year’s Eve.

• One rally is a student-led anti-corruption protest while a counter-demonstration is scheduled to be held at the same place.

• Sabah Umno chief Bung urges police to get one of the groups to move to another location.

Sabah Umno chief Bung Moktar Radin has urged all parties to respect Sabah’s harmony and abide by the rule of law.

He said this after another group, purportedly in support of Sabah Chief Minister Hajiji Noor, had decided to hold a rally at the same place where a group of students had planned to gather to oppose corruption in the state.

“We cannot compromise on the security of Sabahans. Therefore, I urge those involved to prioritise harmony and avoid taking any action that could jeopardise the state’s stability,” he said in a statement today.

On Dec 20, a Sabah-based student group announced a New Year’s Eve anti-corruption rally outside the Sabah State Administration Building, warning politicians ahead of the state polls next year against ignoring the people’s will.

‘Don’t be afraid to come’

Suara Mahasiswa UMS representatives said the police have accepted their notification submitted under the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012.

“So, to all Sabahans, do not be afraid to come down and show our stand on Dec 31.

“This is our right as ordinary citizens to uphold democracy in our state,” said group spokesperson Sudirman Arsyad.

The rally was called following a whistleblower exposé alleging corruption by several Sabah assemblypersons, which also implicated Hajiji.

However, social media is abuzz over a counter rally being held on the day and venue, called Himpunan Bangkit Sabahan, organised by Sekretariat Himpunan Bangkit Sabahan.

Malaysiakini has contacted Gerakan Kuasa Rakyat Malaysia (G57) Zulkarnain Mahdar, said to be one of the organisers, for comments.

Cops must act

On that note, Bung said that while both rallies are aimed at delivering important messages to the people, the situation could bring tensions among both groups, which could lead to unnecessary provocations and affect public peace.

As such, the former Sabah deputy chief minister urged the police to get one of the groups to move their rally to another location to prevent untoward incidents.

“The police should have a dialogue with both parties to ensure they follow the provisions enshrined under the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012.

“The authorities should also increase the number of personnel manning the rallies to ensure the situation remains under control,” Bung stressed.

‘Don’t emulate Bangladesh’

Meanwhile, BN Youth executive council member Anil Sandhu urged both parties to cancel their rallies, adding it is not part of Malaysian norms.

“Let’s not copy the acts of other countries such as Bangladesh, which will eventually bring detriment to all.

“Regardless of who is the organiser, I urge everyone to cancel the rallies for the common good. Let’s use proper channels to air our grouses,” he said in a statement today.

In a message to the undergraduates, he urged them to focus on their studies first.

“This is the time to gain knowledge, not dabble in politics or state administration.

“When the time comes, with maturity and a solid career, only then your contributions to politics will be more meaningful.”

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