GEORGE TOWN, Dec 23 — Christmas will be an uneventful day in Penang, Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said today after visits by Penang Police Chief Datuk Abdul Rahim Hanafi to several churches yesterday prompted minor apprehension.
“We are confident the police have everything under control to stop any uncivilised elements from disrupting Christmas celebrations in Penang,” he said in a press conference at his office today.
“I believe the police can control the situation and all churches in Penang are safe for worshippers to celebrate Christmas.”
Yesterday, Abdul Rahim visited several churches in George Town and told reporters that the police are ready to step up security of the churches to protect the safety of the public.
He dismissed, however, suggestions that his visits were due to possible threats against the churches.
“This is just a routine check that we do all the time. Police officers and the district police chief also do this,” he reportedly told media yesterday.
According to Bernama, Abdul Rahim visited the St Francis Church, the St George’s Church and the Church of the Assumption yesterday.
He reportedly said there are 107 churches in Penang and all these churches “are safe for worshippers”.
