DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook said that as Malaysia enters the month of August, flying the Jalur Gemilang is an important way to express love for the country, but patriotism should not be defined by a single form.
“Everyone has their own way of showing their love for the nation, and no one has the right to monopolise the meaning of patriotism. As the English saying goes, ‘the substance is more important than the form’,” he said.
Loke noted that recent incidents of the Malaysian flag being displayed incorrectly have sparked heated discussions on social media, potentially distracting from the focus of National Day celebrations.
He stressed that the national flag is a symbol of sovereignty that must be displayed correctly and respectfully, in accordance with the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1963. Any misuse or incorrect display of the Jalur Gemilang and the national emblem is an offence, to be enforced by the police under the principle of the Rule of Law.
Loke criticised attempts to “fish in troubled waters” by threatening protests at business premises or “teaching” others how to hang the flag, calling such acts a form of bullying that Malaysians reject.
“As National Day approaches, let us strengthen unity, respect diversity, and work together for the progress of the Malaysia we all love,” he said.
