Peaceful gatherings in Singapore, Sydney, Melbourne compared to barbaric leader in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, July 9 — While the city centre was thrown into chaos today as the police tried to stop Bersih 2.0 supporters from rallying, Malaysians across the globe gathered peacefully in support of free and fair elections.

The contrast was evident in Singapore today where about 120 people came out in support of Bersih 2.0’s call at Hong Lim Park and distributed yellow roses to passers-by.

There was no need for law enforcement as they did not have make speeches or carry banners.

In Melbourne, Australia, some 750 marchers gathered peacefully at Federation Square, brandishing banners and placards in Bersih’s signature yellow.

Whispers of “peace” were passed along supporters, who also chanted slogans for electoral reform.

A view of the people who turned up for the Bersih rally in Melbourne on July 9, 2011.

“The whole rally was smooth and peaceful. These shows how united we are even though we are far from our country,” said student Wei Liang.

In Sydney, supporters gathered at Sydney Square and sang the national anthem “Negaraku”.

The gathering was approved by the police and the New South Wales City Council after the organisers applied for a permit.

After about two hours, the participants dispersed just as peacefully as they had gathered.

It is reported that other Bersih rallies in cities across the world will be held later tonight.

Bersih 2.0 said today the rally in Kuala Lumpur was a great success as an estimated 50, 000 people turned out in support of the movement.

The rally had spawned the Bersih 2.0 Global Solidarity Network, which encouraged Malaysians abroad to add their voices to the movement.

Support groups have been set up in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, France, Ireland, Sweden, Hong Kong, Switzerland, Scotland, Canada and the United States.