The DAP Socialist Youth (DAPSY) has strongly criticised the Pontian Municipal Council (MPPn) for ordering a dental clinic to close for 30 days after flag gaffe, describing the move as “excessive and beyond authority.”
DAPSY said while businesses should indeed learn from recent flag incidents and respect the national flag, the 30-day closure order was disproportionate and undermined public trust in local government.
The DAP youth wing urged Johor state government to intervene and instruct MPPn to retract the directive.
“Even if there was negligence in hanging the flag, a month-long closure is too harsh. Patients with appointments, including surgeries, are now forced to postpone or seek alternative care. Ultimately, it is the public who suffers,” it said.
DAPSY stressed that local councils should not act as “patriotism police”, warning that such overreach fosters abuse of power and double standards.
“When similar mistakes involve the Education Ministry, PAS in Terengganu or UMNO Youth, the matter is brushed aside. But when ordinary businesses are involved, punishments are severe, from forced closures to public shaming. This double standard breeds anger and distrust,” it added.
The group cautioned that harsh penalties will backfire, making the national flag a burden rather than a unifying symbol.
“Patriotism should be nurtured through education and encouragement, not fear and punishment. Only then can the flag truly represent national unity,” it concluded.
