Anwar had planned to address his supporters at Darul Shifa', the home of respected Islamic scholar Haron Din, but the speech had to be cancelled because the police refused a permit.

"Tonight, we are unable to explain (the objectives of the Anwar-led Reformasi movement)," Dr Haron told the crowd.

"We have to respect the laws of the country."

Thousands of people, many carrying banners supporting Anwar's call for political reforms, had gathered at the venue. Even as they began to leave upon learning of the cancellation, hundreds of others were still arriving.

An AFP report said the crowd was estimated at between 20,000 and 30,000 people, compared with 100,000 at the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games nearby.

Cars were parked up to three kilometres from Dr Haron's house.

END