KUALA LUMPUR: To avoid potential dangers following recent riots, Malaysians Siti Murnirah Othman, 32, and her family, who live in the United Kingdom, have been limiting their activities in crowded places and avoiding public transportation.
Siti Murnirah, a resident of Gloucester - an area not directly affected by the riots that have hit cities like Liverpool, Birmingham, Northern Ireland, and Middlesbrough - said that while their local situation remains calm, they are staying vigilant.
"I live in Gloucester, and thankfully, things here are still under control. My husband was even able to attend Friday prayers without any issues. The police usually notify mosques of any disturbances, helping us stay alert," she told Harian Metro.
"As a precaution, we avoid crowded areas, do not take our children to playgrounds, and shop for groceries online. We also steer clear of public transport like buses and trains due to ongoing fears. Situations can seem safe but quickly become dangerous," she added.
Reports suggest that UK authorities are struggling to manage what is being called the worst unrest in the country since the 2011 London riots, with nearly 430 arrests and at least 120 charges. Several countries have issued travel warnings for the UK.
The mother of three, who works in healthcare, noted that this is the first time in six years living in the UK that they have faced riots targeting the Muslim community and foreign nationals.
"Police are very strict about maintaining safety; anyone causing trouble will face jail time," she said.
The unrest is concerning, especially with their children about to start school in early September and with plans for her parents and in-laws to visit in October.
"We stay in touch with our family in Malaysia to ease their concerns during this period," she added.
She also mentioned that she and her husband are maintaining their routines by driving themselves to work.
"I'm grateful for the support from my colleagues. The riots started during the summer break, so the children are mostly at home. I work nights and my husband works days, allowing us to take turns caring for them."
Siti Murnirah expressed hope that the riots will end soon so they can return to a peaceful routine.
International media reported that the riots erupted after a stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, northwest London, on July 29, resulting in the deaths of three girls and serious injuries to five others.
The unrest was fueled by rumors on social media claiming the attacker was a Muslim asylum seeker.
However, the suspect was later identified as Axel Rudakubana, 17, born in Wales to Rwandan parents.
Riots have since spread to various towns and cities in London and Northern Ireland, targeting mosques and foreign nationals.