Protesters in Kuala Lumpur Voice Opposition to Trump’s Visit for ASEAN Summit

Demonstrators gathered peacefully at Dataran Merdeka this morning to protest the arrival of U.S. President Donald Trump for the 47th ASEAN Summit, voicing strong opposition to his administration’s ties with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and support for Palestine.

Crowds began assembling around 9 a.m., with many participants wearing the traditional keffiyeh and holding placards reading “Free Palestine.” Families, activists, and political figures including Datuk Zuraida Kamarudin, Chua Tian Chang, and Datuk Nizam Mahshar were spotted among attendees.

Protester Iqmal, 38, who attended with his family, said the demonstration aimed to show “global solidarity with Palestine” and called for the U.S. to end its collaboration with Israel.

Despite the passionate chants of “Trump is a hypocrite” and “Trump is a liar,” the rally remained peaceful under the watch of police and anti-riot units stationed nearby. Several police trucks were parked around the square as a precaution.

An ice cream vendor identified as Syawal expressed mixed feelings, saying that while he supported the Palestinian cause, holding protests during an international summit might project the wrong image to visiting leaders.

The crowd began dispersing around noon, with organizers planning a second rally at Ampang Park later in the day. However, city police have warned the public to avoid the area, designating it a “red zone” due to its proximity to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, where the summit is being held.

Public transport operator Rapid KL announced the temporary closure of nearby LRT and MRT stations — including KLCC, Conlay, and Ampang Park — from 7 a.m. to midnight for security reasons.