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ANY dissatisfaction with the government does not entitle one to disrespect the Jalur Gemilang, Malaysia’s national flag, which remains a powerful emblem of the country’s sovereignty and dignity.
Associate Professor Datuk Dr Shamrahayu A. Aziz, a constitutional and legal scholar, urged Malaysians to demonstrate greater awareness and ethical responsibility in displaying the national flag, particularly during the National Month celebrations.
“In recent years, we have seen various forms of misconduct by our own citizens in handling the flag — flying it upside down, altering its colours, omitting the crescent moon or presenting an incomplete star,” she told Bernama.
“Such acts, whether intentional or careless, reflect poorly on our national identity and collective pride as Malaysians,” she added.
Shamrahayu noted that although there are no specific provisions within the Federal Constitution regarding national symbols, persistent misuse could justify the introduction of official guidelines rooted in the **Rukun Negara** and the Constitution.
“If these incidents continue, we should consider issuing a formal code of conduct for flag usage, tied to our national philosophy and values,” she said, emphasising that the flag is far more than just coloured cloth. “It is a symbol of our sovereignty, identity and national unity — and it must be treated as such all year round, not only during Merdeka.”
She also stressed that adults have a duty to model proper behaviour for the younger generation. “As the saying goes, ‘like father, like son’. Responsible flag etiquette must be passed down as part of our cultural legacy.”
Separately, Professor Dr Novel Lyndon, Chairman of the Centre for Social, Environmental and Development Studies at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), echoed similar sentiments. He said the way citizens treat the flag reflects their sense of national loyalty and appreciation for Malaysia’s struggle for independence.
“To fly the Jalur Gemilang is to honour those who fought for our freedom and the long journey of nation-building,” he said.
He warned, however, that displaying tattered or improperly mounted flags conveys a lack of national sensitivity, tarnishing Malaysia’s image both domestically and abroad.
“This indifference weakens national identity and erodes patriotism among the younger generation,” he said.
To counter this, Novel recommended strengthening patriotic education at the school level through history and civics lessons, while also utilising mass media, community events and National Month programmes to reinforce love for the nation.
“Without this awareness,” he concluded, “the flag risks being seen as mere fabric — no longer a symbol of pride, dignity, or the spirit of a sovereign, independent nation.” - August 10, 2025
