By Projek Wawasan Rakyat


KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia--We are appalled by the authorities' decision to investigate the organisers of the #LAWAN gathering of 30/7/21.
 
The #LAWAN gathering was held in accordance with the rights to freedom of expression, and was a legitimate form of protest. Malaysians must be given the appropriate space to express their views democratically in accordance with the law.
 
Regardless of their political positions, all Malaysians should be accorded this freedom, and be free from undue harassment and intimidation from the authorities. We are especially appalled at the attempt to crowdsource the identity of protesters using photographs.

The extreme anger and frustration that all Malaysians are feeling with regards to the poor handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and the unfolding political and constitutional crisis must be allowed due expression.
 
We call upon these authorities to immediately end these unnecessary investigations, and devote the government's energy and resources towards Malaysia's real problems - especially those of ensuring that hospitals are getting the equipment and resources they need, and all security and medical frontliners are supported adequately.