The decades-old law, which allows for indefinite detention without trial, was most recently used against five Indian rights activists.

Protesters from the Anti-ISA Movement yesterday gathered near Independence Square, holding candles and chanting slogans just beyond a police barricade that blocked access to the square in downtown Kuala Lumpur.

Ignoring a warning to disperse, the protesters were chased down the street by marching police who banged batons on shields in a show of force. The protesters only regrouped further away, lighting their candles again.

After a short stand-off, the police turned a water cannon on them. At least one protester was arrested.

Police had earlier warned that the gathering was illegal as a permit to hold it had been refused. Traffic access to the square had also been closed.

The protesters still turned up, despite a drizzle. 'The ISA is an unjust law, it doesn't matter what race you are,' said the movement's chairman, Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh.

The candlelight vigil was the latest in a series of demonstrations that have rocked the government in recent months.

Many of the protesters were supporters of the Hindu Rights Action Front (Hindraf), which organised the massive rally on Nov 25 that led to the arrest of its five leaders.

Mr T. Durai, a Hindraf supporter, told The Sunday Times that it was unfair for their leaders to be held under the ISA, and said he joined the protest to demand their release.

Carolyn Hong