KUALA LUMPUR: On Tuesday (Dec 26), a group of demonstrators gathered outside the US embassy to show their support for Palestine, despite a significant police presence.
The crowd convened around 10:45pm and found the embassy entrance blocked by law enforcement officers.
Dozens of policemen were observed positioned in front of and around the embassy, while a police truck obstructed the road leading to the entrance.
“First and foremost, I want to emphasize that we express our sympathy and support for the Palestinian people, particularly those in Gaza who have been oppressed by Israel’s attacks. However, we have a duty to ensure public safety and the safety of foreign representatives in Malaysia,” said Kuala Lumpur police chief Comm Datuk Allaudeen Abdul Majid while outside the US embassy.
Chua Tian Chang, a former PKR vice-president representing the crowd, explained that they were “picketing” outside the embassy, not protesting.
“Starting tonight, activists will engage in ‘surrounding’ activities by picketing outside the embassy. The purpose is to remind everyone that the people in Gaza are being surrounded by the Israeli military,” he stated.
In response to protestors planning to establish camps near the embassy compound, Comm Allaudeen appealed to the crowd to cooperate with the police.
“We will assess the situation. The police request cooperation from everyone, including those who intend to stay here.
“We need to prioritize public safety and ensure that traffic and vehicles are not obstructed,” he affirmed.
The demonstration outside the US embassy is part of a six-day peaceful assembly called “Kepung Demi Palestin.”
Various NGOs and political parties were present, including a group from MCA Youth.
One of the speakers at the gathering advised those interested in setting up camp to do so at a designated area nearby.
Others were seen dispersing peacefully.
