NIBONG TEBAL: Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli affirmed the right of citizens to protest after approximately 200 people, dressed in black, demonstrated at the parking lot of the Prime Minister's official residence yesterday, urging Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to address their eight demands.
While affirming the right to protest, Rafizi emphasised the importance of compliance with existing laws, underscoring it as a responsibility for all participants.
"As members of the Madani administration, I respect their right to protest," he remarked, adding humorously, "They can even protest in front of my cat, no problem."
It was reported that around 200 people, clad in black, staged a protest and called on the prime minister to fulfil their eight demands.
The demands included allowing another Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) withdrawal, the full restoration of diesel subsidies, a reduction in the cost of living and ensuring the welfare of health workers.
The protest, led by Penggerak Demi Negara, also wanted a sufficient supply of local white rice, equal allocations for all elected representatives, a commitment to freedom of speech, and the rejection of International Monetary Fund (IMF) policies.