PETALING JAYA: The RM4,000 compound notice issued to the Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) will be paid within seven days, says secretary-general Amira Aisya.

       She said after consulting with their lawyers, they decided to pay because challenging the compound would cost extra time and money that the fledgling party does not have.

       "We will make the payment within seven days. Challenging the compound would cost us money and time that we do not have," Amira told The Star on Thursday (Oct 28).

       The yet-to-be-registered Muda is set to contest in the upcoming Melaka state election under an Opposition party which will be announced soon.

       At the same time, Amira criticised the RM4,000 compound notice issued to Muda, saying that, on the contrary, Barisan Nasional was only issued a compound notice for RM10,000 for a large-scale event.

       "Barisan was only fined RM10,000 for a large-scale event with thousands in attendance, in comparison with our five-person press conference that was held in an open space with face masks," she said.

       Nevertheless, Amira said the RM4,000 was a lot for a young party, but the compound notice would not dampen the spirits of youths behind Muda.

       "Yes it has caused a dent in our coffers, but definitely not in our spirits.

       "If nothing else, what happened Wednesday (Oct 27) made us more eager to prove that Malaysia deserves better."

       In a tweet on Wednesday, Amira had said Muda was given permission by the authorities to hold the press conference, as long as SOPs were abided by.

       However, a member of Muda was called to the Melaka police headquarters after the press conference ended and they were given a RM4,000 compound notice.

       Nominations for the Melaka state election has been set for Nov 8 while polling is on Nov 20.