KOTA KINABALU: Two peaceful rallies are being staged in nearby locations over the weekend, each conveying different messages.
The first rally involves university students mainly from Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), non-governmental organisations and supporters.
The second, a smaller group claiming to be university students and their supporters, is also taking place in the city.
The UMS group is holding the Gempur Rasuah 2.0 rally, protesting against corruption, unfair administration, and the failure to deliver basic infrastructure and necessities such as water.
They are also continuing their year-long criticism of Tun Musa Aman’s appointment as the Head of State.
UMS student group Suara Mahasiswa president Muhamad Fadhil Muhamad Kasim said the rally is not against the government but opposes corrupt and unfair governance.
It is also a call for the youth to voice their dissatisfaction and concerns when something is wrong with the government.
They began their rally in front of the Suria Sabah Shopping Mall and initially refused to leave despite security guards' requests, so as not to disrupt mall-goers and road users.
However, they relented after being informed that the rally was legal, with police approval and certain rules in place.
The Gempur Rasuah 2.0 rally is set to continue at several checkpoints until Sunday (June 22).
The other movement, Gerakan Anak Muda dan Mahasiswa Anak Sabah (Gammas), held a demonstration lasting less than 30 minutes at Chong Tien Vun Park nearby.
Representative Noridi @ Noraidi Maya said they are not staging a counter-rally against the UMS students but showing solidarity and support for Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He stated that students received benefits and aid from the government, such as the Sentosa, Budi, and Subfly assistance.
Regarding the ongoing mining scandal, he said it is best to leave investigations to the authorities, as students are unsure of the details and proceedings.
On issues of water, electricity, and infrastructure such as roads, Noridi said these are decades-old problems currently being addressed.
Other matters discussed included the proposed Political Funding Act and the appointment of Tun Musa Aman as the Head of State.
“We urge the federal government to expedite the passing of this Political Funding Act to prevent issues such as mining and related matters from recurring,” he said.
Noridi stated that the TYT’s appointment is final and should not be questioned further.
He called on students and the public to move on from this matter to protect the sanctity of the royal institution.
