Speaking to reporters in Rusila here, Hadi said PAS had met with government and security authorities over preparations for tomorrow’s gathering and the safety of the participants.

“The gathering has the approval of the security authorities. As such, the security forces will act against any provocation by irresponsible people.

“I hope PAS supporters will attend so as to fulfil our objective to support the amendments to Act 355 to enhance the status of shariah courts in the country’s legal system,” he said.

The gathering is in support of a private members’ bill to be brought by Hadi to amend the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965, better known as Act 355.

Last November, Hadi tabled a motion in the Dewan Rakyat, seeking the approval of the house to table the private members’ bill, and requested that a detailed explanation on the motion be made at the next Dewan Rakyat meeting.

Today, Hadi added that more than 200,000 people were expected to attend the gathering, including non-Muslims who supported the bill.

“We invite all to attend. We are open for all of us to express our support to empower Islam and, at the same time, give non-Muslims the freedom to practise their beliefs.

“As of now, I can confirm that there will be government representatives at the gathering,” he said.

The rally is expected to begin at 2.30pm and end at 11pm. It will feature several activities such as question-and-answer sessions with speakers and speeches by NGOs and government representatives as well as by Hadi himself.