Why are Malaysian authorities showing increased intolerance towards peaceful assemblies?

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Malaysian Authorities Exhibit Increased Intolerance Towards Peaceful Assemblies Due to Perceived Inconvenience and Threats

Malaysian authorities have demonstrated a growing intolerance towards peaceful assemblies since January, with activists asserting that police continue to treat protests and gatherings as either an inconvenience or a threat. This perspective leads to unwarranted interference aimed at repressing assemblies and subsequent intimidation of participants. Restrictions on the use of public spaces for protests have also been amplified, notably preventing assemblies near Parliament.
Authorities Restrict Use of Public Spaces for Assemblies

Authorities have escalated measures restricting the use of public spaces for protests and assemblies. A significant development is the prevention of protesters from marching to or gathering at or near Parliament. This practice is seen as hindering the expressive purpose of assemblies, as the chosen location is considered integral to their impact and ability to reach their intended audience or targeted group.
Police Employ Intimidation Tactics Against Protesters

Beyond restricting locations, law enforcement has reportedly targeted individuals within assemblies, particularly new faces. Activists claim police intimidate these individuals by demanding identification or other documentation. Furthermore, prohibiting individuals from concealing their identity during protests is considered an undue interference with the fundamental right to freedom of assembly.
Post-Assembly Intimidation Under Section 9(5) of the PAA

A frequently employed tactic to deter protests involves post-assembly intimidation, often manifesting as criminal investigations under Section 9(5) of the Peaceful Assembly Act (PAA) 2012. This section criminalises an organiser's failure to provide five days' notice before a gathering. Activists argue that Section 9(5) is incompatible with international human rights standards, as it effectively prohibits urgent and spontaneous assemblies and undermines the state's duty to uphold the right to freedom of assembly.
Police Action Seen as Obstructive Rather Than Facilitative

There is a sentiment among activists that the police's role has shifted from facilitating peaceful protests to obstructing them. Concerns have been raised that recent confrontations at street protests were unnecessary and that such protests have only escalated when provoked by authorities. Instead of managing traffic and ensuring safety, police actions, such as marching towards protesters and establishing blockades, are perceived as causing commotion and inviting aggression.

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Why are Malaysian authorities showing increased intolerance towards peaceful assemblies?

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