Protests in Malaysia

Members of Malaysia8217;s Islamic fundamentalist opposition party protested in front of the British High Commission in this Muslim-majority nation over Britain8217;s decision to grant a knighthood to author Salman Rushdie.

About 25 activists from the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party shouted 8220;Crush Salman Rushdie8221; and 8220;Damn Britain8221; as police stood watch during the one-hour peaceful demonstration outside the British diplomatic mission in Kuala Lumpur. The protesters dispersed after the party8217;s youth leader, Salahuddin Ayub, handed a protest note to a commission official. 8220;We consider this an irresponsible move by the British government,8221; Salahuddin said.