Section 11 of the PAA requires organisers of assemblies to obtain the consent of the location’s owner or occupier.

“The government will always uphold the democratic principles and the constitutional rights of the people by ensuring they are able to assemble peacefully,” he said.

In a statement today, Saifuddin said his ministry would also examine the Federal Court’s ruling today that deemed it unconstitutional to criminalise the failure to notify the police five days in advance of holding a peaceful assembly.

Chief Justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat said Section 9(5) of the PAA was “a disproportionate intervention” and amounted to a prohibition rather than a restriction of that right.

Saifuddin said his ministry would consider proposals to amend the provision so that it would be in line with the constitution.

He also noted that over 10,000 rallies had been held since 2023 with no restrictions placed on 98% of them.

He said this number rose to 99% out of 7,000 rallies in 2024, showing Malaysians’ maturity in peacefully and responsibly exercising their right to assemble.

Saifuddin went on to say that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had enforced a moratorium on any legal proceedings under Section 9(5) of the PAA as part of his agenda to reform the law.

The section imposes a punishment that exceeds the limits permitted under Article 10(1)(b) of the Federal Constitution, which guarantees the freedom of speech, assembly, and association.