Institut Kemahiran Mara (IKM) in Beseri, Perlis, has revoked its approval for former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad to speak at its main hall during an event organised by the Padang Besar Umno division.

Division head Zahidi Zainul claimed that IKM Berseri was instructed by 'people at the top' to revoke its approval for the Aug 26 event.

According to him, they are worried that Mahathir will continue his criticisms against Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

He told malaysiakini the event will now be held at a vacant lot where the division's building is to be constructed.

Zahidi revealed that IKM Berseri has also denied permission for the division to use the hall for its meeting scheduled for Aug 27.

In view of this, he said Padang Besar Umno is forced to postpone its meeting until a new venue can be fixed.

"The new date for the meeting cannot be ascertained as it is difficult to find a new venue," he added.

Previously, he said the IKM Beseri administration agreed to allow both the events to take place on its premises.

Shahidan's warning

Asked to comment on the warning by Perlis Menteri Besar Shahidan Kassim that action can be taken against Zahidi if the Mahathir event has negative effects on the government, he said:

"Shahidan does not have to be the party's disciplinary board and Umno is not an iron-fist party. Furthermore Pak Lah himself has said that Mahathir should not be stopped from speaking."

In a related development, a spokesperson for the Gen M (Generation Mahathir) club said there has been encouraging response from Umno members and the public for the trip to Perlis.

He said the two buses that have been chartered are already full and due to financial constraints, they do not intend to charter another bus.