Don't bring written material that can incite racial hatred, PM tells rally-goers

Datuk Seri Najib Razak has cautioned participants of the 'Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu' planned for Wednesday to avoid bringing any written material including pamphlets or banners that can stir up racial hatred.

The Prime Minister and UMNO president said those involved must comply with the rules and observe all laws including the Sedition Act 1948.

"We have received some views on the Sept 16 rally, including the BN component parties' and we have agreed to disagree with the rally.

"It is an inappropriate date to hold the rally. I respect the views shared in BN. Do not carry any form of written material on that day or act hostile.

"The police are also prepared to heighten security to avoid any untoward incident," Najib, who is BN chairman told reporters after chairing the BN Supreme Council meeting at the Putra World Trade Centre, Monday.

Also present were BN and UMNO's number two, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, UMNO vice-president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and BN component party leaders.

The meeting marked the first after the July 28 Cabinet reshuffle.

Najib reiterated that the meeting had decided that Sept 16 was an inappropriate date to hold any rallies.

"BN leaders will convene in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah on that day, a venue where the Sept 16 spirit will be alive," he added.

KL Mayor, Datuk Mhd Amin Nordin Abdul Aziz yesterday said City Hall had approved the permit application to the organiser, National Silat Federation (Pesaka) to use Padang Merbok to hold the Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu.

Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Mansor had also advised all quarters who wish to join the rally to obey the rules.

He said with City Hall allowing Padang Merbok to be used as venue, it is hoped that major roads around the city would be left undisturbed by the rally.

Led by Pesaka, Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu is supported by 250 NGOs and is being held in response to the Bersih 4 rally held last month.