Kuala Lumpur, August 15 – The Democratic Action Party (DAP) has condemned the actions of UMNO Youth Chief Dr. Muhamad Akmal Saleh, who led a protest outside a metal shop in Kepala Batas yesterday, despite prior warnings from the Inspector-General of Police and the Penang Police Chief prohibiting any public gatherings.
DAP Secretary-General Loke Siew Fook described the protest as an act of bullying and intimidation against the business owner, who is currently under investigation for the improper display of the national flag and has already publicly apologized for the incident.
“Akmal’s defiance of police warnings is not only a challenge to the rule of law, but also a disruption of public order,” said Loke in a statement today.
“The incident caused anxiety among nearby business owners, some of whom were forced to shut down early due to safety concerns.”
He added that such behaviour is beyond the bounds of legality and the norms of a multi-ethnic society like Malaysia. He called for appropriate legal action to be taken against those responsible for the “excessive and provocative conduct.”
As a response, Loke has directed DAP Youth (DAPSY) nationwide to lodge police reports under several provisions of the Penal Code, including:
- Section 503: Criminal intimidation
- Section 504: Intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of the peace
- Section 505: Statements conducing to public mischief
Additionally, reports will be filed under the newly introduced provisions addressing bullying:
- Section 507B: Causing distress, fear or anxiety
- Section 507C: Uttering words likely to cause distress, fear or anxiety
Loke emphasized that while the Jalur Gemilang must always be displayed correctly and with due respect, intimidation and bullying are not acceptable ways to address such matters.
“There are lawful and respectful ways to uphold national symbols. What happened yesterday was not one of them,” he said.
