It was just a silat demonstration, says anti-Bersih leader

He was commenting on the act, which many had described as irrational, and held at the wrong place for the wrong reasons.

"If we want to hold a rally, we might as well be prepared. Yesterday was a demonstration to show that we are ready for any possibilities.

"The Malays have silat and we are aware that whoever learns it, know that it is meant for self-defence and not for attacking," he said.

Jamal, who leads the group consisting of a coalition of Malay NGOs, said the usage of woods and roof tiles are 'normal' during silat demonstrations.

Commenting on the people who criticised the group's action, he said no one ever forced those people to agree with the performance.

"These are my views. I have joined Bersih 1, 2 and 3 and I know that Bersih will end in violence through provocative acts and riots by its participants," he said.

He also said that the participants would normally carry placards with anti-government slogans, causing government supporters to be angry.

Yesterday, a violent performance by the group - smashing woods and roof tiles on their backs and heads received public attention as well as criticisms by people who saw the act on video.

Donning red T-shirts bearing the slogan 'Bersih 4 Keamanan', the group held their performance in front of Sogo shopping complex on Tuesday.