PAKATAN Harapan will go ahead with the “Love Malaysia, End Kleptocracy” rally in Padang Timur, Petaling Jaya, on Saturday despite failure to obtain police approval.

Amanah president Mohamad Sabu said the gathering will take place at Padang Timur after getting approvals from the city council and state government.

“We have an agreement with the owner of the premises, which is the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ). Furthermore, the Selangor government has said this is an appropriate venue.

“This is a festival, where many people will be coming. We have already ordered the sound system and we will be going ahead with the rally.

“We are also expecting to end the rally by 11pm so that the people can go back using public transport, like the LRT (light rail transit),” he said.

Petaling Jaya police yesterday sent a letter to MBPJ council member Lim Yi Wei, objecting to the rally venue.

Police said the rally will hinder the movement of commuters and block feeder buses going to the Taman Jaya LRT station, which is about 50m from the field.

Earlier today, Inspector-General of Police Mohamad Fuzi Harun said police will got give its approval if the rally is held at the original location, suggesting instead that the event be shifted to the Kelana Jaya stadium.

Fuzi said police have received four reports from residents complaining of traffic congestion if the rally is allowed to be held at Padang Timur.

Fuzi also warned that police will act against the organisers if they persisted in holding the event at Padang Timur.

Mohamad, however, said the organisers will work with the police and MBPJ to ensure smooth traffic flow.

“We will work with the authorities. We have 700 volunteers together with the police and MBPJ officers to monitor traffic.”

Selangor DAP chairman Tony Pua said police should assist them and not try to stop them from having the rally, using the Peaceful Assembly Act.

“We have already notified them (police) under the Peaceful Assembly Act. Padang Timur is a suitable location because of the easy access to LRT, which will greatly reduce congestion.

“The field can easily accommodate 50,000 people, so the question that the area is not appropriate should not arise.”

DAP Youth international secretary Howard Lee also urged the people to use the LRT as it will facilitate the traffic flow in the area.

“The last LRT will leave 18 minutes after midnight. We will also provide maps, and guides for all visitors on Facebook and social media sites.” – October 11, 2017.