KUCHING: The Jalur Gemilang is more than just the nation’s flag, it is a symbol of pride and unity that must be treated with the utmost respect, said International Education Legacy Foundation (IELF) president and founder Dr Wynson Ong Teck Ping.
He was commenting on a recent incident where a business premises unintentionally displayed the Malaysian flag upside down, drawing public attention.
“Many traders and members of the public hang the flag during the National Month with patriotic intentions.
“However, cases of the flag being displayed upside down are mostly due to negligence or a lack of knowledge on the correct way to hang it, not deliberate acts of disrespect,” he said.
Ong stressed the importance of distinguishing between unintentional mistakes and deliberate acts of insult.
“For unintentional mistakes, education and guidance are often more effective in the long run. But for deliberate acts of disrespect, firm action under the law must be taken,” he said.
He suggested that authorities use National Day celebrations and community activities to promote proper flag-handling guidelines widely, both online and offline.
“These guidelines should be clear and easy to understand, so more Malaysians can express their patriotism in a proper and dignified manner.
“Patriotism is not just a feeling, but an action. In line with the Malaysia MADANI values of courtesy, unity and mutual respect, let us, in this month of independence, raise the Jalur Gemilang correctly so that love and respect for the nation fly high in every corner of the country,” he added.
Ong also took the opportunity to wish all Malaysians a Happy National Day, with hopes the nation continues to remain united, progressive and prosperous.
