Police ensure peaceful rallies in Sabah

Police’s efficient coordination ensured that the “Gempur Rasuah Sabah” and “Himpunan Bangkit Sabahan” rallies proceeded peacefully in Kota Kinabalu today, despite both being held simultaneously at the same location.

Both rallies were scheduled to take place at 2pm in front of Menara Kinabalu, coinciding with the state government’s Karnival Ria event at the same venue.

Police personnel from the Sabah police contingent headquarters, Kota Kinabalu district police headquarters, and the 16th and 21st General Operations Force (PGA) Battalions worked together to oversee the events, ensuring there were no disruptions to public order.

Earlier, about 200 participants of the Gempur Rasuah Sabah rally, organised by Suara Mahasiswa, gathered at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and marched approximately 3.4km to Menara Kinabalu, arriving at 3.10pm.

Upon arrival, police restricted their access to the Menara Kinabalu area, citing ongoing Karnival Ria activities. Rally participants were advised to remain peaceful while voicing their concerns.

About 15 minutes later, members of the “Himpunan Bangkit Sabahan” rally, representing various NGOs, arrived at the location but were also stopped by the police. Both groups were kept about 100m apart to maintain order, with officers monitoring the situation.

Focused on duties

Despite the proximity, both groups proceeded with their speeches using loudspeakers, displaying placards and flags under police supervision.

The “Gempur Rasuah Sabah” rally raised concerns about corruption in the state, while “Himpunan Bangkit Sabahan” participants voiced fears about threats to public order and expressed support for the state government.

Kota Kinabalu police chief Kasim Muda was actively involved in managing police movements but briefly spoke with media personnel, reminding them to prioritise safety. He declined further interview, saying he was focused on completing his duties.

When met by reporters, Suara Mahasiswa president Muhamad Fadhill Kasim said while the group was initially surprised by the heavy police presence, they appreciated how the situation was handled peacefully.

“The police are not our adversaries. They are citizens like us. We are simply here to voice our concerns against corruption,” he said.

The “Himpunan Bangkit Sabahan” rally dispersed about an hour later, while “Gempur Rasuah Sabah” participants remained in the area at the time this report was filed.

- Bernama

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