Was the police action “heavy-handed” according to the Kuala Lumpur Bar?

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Kuala Lumpur Bar Condemns Police Summoning of Women's March Participants as "Heavy-Handed"

The Kuala Lumpur Bar has stated that the city police acted in a "heavy-handed" manner by summoning several participants of the Women's March Malaysia 2023 for questioning. This action, according to the association representing lawyers in the capital, contravenes the civil liberties guaranteed under both the Federal Constitution and the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012.
Police Conduct Deemed Unwarranted

The chairman of the Kuala Lumpur Bar, Alvin Oh Seong Yew, described the police conduct as unwarranted, asserting that it significantly undermines civil rights and liberties in Malaysia. He highlighted that the summonses were delivered to participants late at night, instructing them to report to the Dang Wangi district police station for questioning, a method considered by the association to be an affront to citizens' rights.
Marchers Observed as Peaceful

Lawyers who monitored the Women's March observed that the event was conducted peacefully. This observation supports the Kuala Lumpur Bar's stance that the police action was disproportionate and unnecessary, especially given the nature of the assembly.
Legal Assistance Offered to Participants

The Kuala Lumpur Bar has expressed its willingness to provide assistance to any individuals summoned for police questioning concerning the women's march. They have made contact information available for those requiring legal support, including phone numbers and the address of the Legal Aid Centre in Kuala Lumpur.
Constitutional and Statutory Rights Cited

The association explicitly referenced the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 and Article 10(1) of the Federal Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and expression. The police action is seen as an infringement not only on these fundamental rights but also on the rights of minority groups who participated in the event.

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Was the police action “heavy-handed” according to the Kuala Lumpur Bar?

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