APPROVAL for a solidarity rally on Saturday for victims of the Christchurch terrorist attacks has been sorted, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Islamic Affairs) Mujahid Yusof Rawa.

“It’s done, it is settled,” he told a press conference at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport today.

Mujahid, who had called for the rally, said he hoped to be able to attend it as he was representing the Malaysian government and was headed to Christchurch later today to visit Malaysian victims of the shootings.

It was reported earlier today that 17-year-old Malaysian Mohd Haziq Mohd Tarmizi was killed in the incident.

“I want to remind everyone of the solidarity rally planned for Saturday. Please pray that I am able to come back in the morning and join the programme.

“Generally, we want this message to be heard by Malaysians nationwide,” he added.

Earlier today, Home Minister Muhyiddin Yassin had said Mujahid must give the police due notice of his Perhimpunan Solidariti Kedamaian (Solidarity for Peace) programme.

Citing the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012, Muhyiddin had said anyone who wants to hold a rally needed to inform the police 10 days in advance.

“No matter who wants to hold it (rally), there are rules under the Peaceful Assembly Act.

“No party is an exception. They have to inform the police 10 days before the rally,” he had said.

Mujahid has come under criticism recently from social media users for the rally, citing fears it will cause religious tension. – March 21, 2019.