KUALA LUMPUR: Hundreds of supporters of Act 355 have arrived at Padang Merbok here, where the RUU 355 mega gathering will be held this afternoon.
Clad in purple, the participants, most of whom who arrived in buses, were seen loitering around the field and also near the National Mosque, where many stalls have been set up.
The stalls are doing a roaring business, as rally-goers – many of whom arrived with their families – are purchasing food and drinks, as well as RUU 355 paraphernalia, to fuel and prepare themselves for the nine-hour programme, which begins at 2pm.
The police had yesterday given their assurance that security will be under control during the gathering.
It was also reported that Kuala Lumpur Traffic Chief ACP Mohd Nadzri Hussain said that about 140 personnel have been assigned to control traffic along the main roads to Padang Merbok, but that no road heading to the venue will be closed during the gathering.
However, checks on City Hall’s digital billboards along the Federal Highway and Jalan Bangsar reveal that most roads surrounding Padang Merbok will be closed in stages, including Jalan Parlimen, Jalan Tun Perak and Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman.
Pas leaders have said that 200,000 people are expected to take part in the gathering to demonstrate support for the amendments to the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act, to empower the Syariah Courts.