KOTA KINABALU: University students and pro-government civil organisations are holding a rally near the Chief Minister's office at Menara Kinabalu in Likas amidst heavy police presence.
The Gempur Rasuah group, consisting of over 100 people including students from Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), are demanding action against corruption.
They walked about 4.1km from their campus, shouting slogans against corruption.
Another NGO, Bangkit Sabahan, supports Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor's government and backs the appointment of Tun Musa Aman as Sabah's new Governor.
No untoward incidents were reported during the three-hour rally outside Menara Kinabalu, where Karnival Kinabalu Ria is being held from 10am to 6pm on Monday (Dec 30).
Bangkit Sabahan members dispersed after an hour, while Gempur Rasuah participants plan to remain outside Menara Kinabalu until 1am.
Earlier, police informed both groups not to hold the rallies due to the carnival organised by the state government's Community Development Leader Unit (UPPM).
The Gempur Rasuah group wants corrupt leaders to step down and called for graft busters to take action.
Student leader Fadhli Kasim questioned the heavy presence of armed personnel, stating every Malaysian has the right to hold peaceful gatherings.
He said they only want a clean government and stressed there was no political influence behind the demonstration.
The issue of corruption was triggered by a video alleging the involvement of eight state assemblymen, including four state ministers, in discussions with a businessman over mining prospecting licences.
They are also against the appointment of Musa as Sabah's next governor.
