KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim issued a stark warning today, telling those planning to attend a rally against so-called “illegal” houses of worship to “arrest them and throw them out” if they defy the law or disrupt public order.
Speaking at the PKR Selangor chapter convention, Anwar reminded Malaysians of their right to voice opinions and criticise the government, but stressed that such freedoms must be exercised within legal limits, without inflaming racial or religious tensions.
“Everyone has the right to speak and to disagree with the government, but when actions begin to violate the law and threaten public safety, we will take maximum action. Arrest them and throw them out if they break the law,” he declared.
Anwar also warned against exploiting sensitive issues concerning places of worship to sow discord between the country’s Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities. He underscored that national harmony and security must remain safeguarded at all costs.
“Do not use this issue to incite anger or hatred between communities. We have worked too hard to preserve peace in this country. National security and unity cannot be sacrificed for political or personal agendas,” he added.
The Prime Minister further emphasised that rally participants should not assume the roles of law enforcers. “You are not judges, you are not police. Do not try to take over their roles. Let the authorities do their job according to the law,” he said.
Earlier today, Kuala Lumpur police confirmed that the rally, which was planned near the Sogo shopping complex, would not be permitted due to public safety concerns. Despite the organisers’ insistence on proceeding, the authorities had firmly denied approval for the event.
Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Fadil Marsus told Scoop that organisers, including Zamri Vinoth, would be in violation of a directive issued by the Home Ministry should they proceed with the gathering. He stated that police had made multiple efforts to persuade the organisers to cancel the rally to avoid legal consequences.
The rally, led by preacher Zamri Vinoth and a coalition of groups, is aimed at pressuring authorities to take action against what they claim are “illegal” houses of worship.
Anwar reiterated his stance against the unlawful construction of temples or any religious structures, stressing that all places of worship, including mosques, churches, and temples, must comply with existing laws and regulations.
“If we ignore the rules, the only outcome will be resentment and hatred, and the real problems will remain unresolved. The law applies equally to everyone, without exception,” he concluded. – February 7, 2026