Singaporeans advised to defer non-essential travel to Kuala Lumpur over weekend rallies

The youth wings of Umno and Parti Islam SeMalaysia at a joint rally in Kuala Lumpur in November against Malaysia's intention then to ratify the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. PHOTO: SIN CHEW DAILY/ASIA NEWS NETWORK

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday (Dec 7) advised Singaporeans to defer all non-essential travel to Kuala Lumpur, given the risk of skirmishes at large rallies in the Malaysian capital this weekend.

A racially-charged rally organised by Malaysia's largest Malay-Muslim political parties Umno and Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS) and with turnout expected to number in the tens of thousands will take place at the Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square) on Saturday (Dec 8).

Separately, Malaysia's Human Rights Commission, or Suhakam, planned to hold a gathering attended by Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad in Petaling Jaya on the same day to mark Human Rights Day.

But the commission said on Friday it had been asked by police to postpone the event due to "security risks... that borders on national security". The event has been postponed to Sunday.

The MFA said in an advisory: "As with large congregations or demonstrations, there is a possibility that limited and isolated skirmishes might take place. There may also be traffic disruptions and other disturbances that will impact travellers.

"Singaporeans are advised to defer all non-essential travel to Kuala Lumpur for the time being."

The MFA urged Singaporeans currently in Kuala Lumpur to stay vigilant and avoid large gatherings, monitor local media for developments and heed the instructions of local authorities.

The ministry also encouraged Singaporeans to register themselves at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/ so that they can be contacted if necessary. They are also advised to stay in touch with family and friends.

Those who need consular assistance in Kuala Lumpur may contact the Singapore High Commission in Kuala Lumpur or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24 hours) at:

Singapore High Commission in Kuala Lumpur

209 Jalan Tun Razak
50400 Kuala Lumpur

Telephone: +60 321 616 277
Duty Officer Telephone: +60 166 610 400
E-mail: singhc_kul@mfa.sg

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24-hours)

Tanglin, Singapore 248163

Telephone: +65 6379 8800 / 8855
E-mail: mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg

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