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THE recent surge in cases involving the upside-down display of the Jalur Gemilang, including one involving a person with disabilities (OKU), must serve as a stern warning ahead of Malaysia’s National Day celebrations, says Dr Hafidzah Mustakim.
Dr Hafidzah, who is Vice Chief of Angkatan Wanita Amanah Negara (AWAN) and State Assemblywoman for Kota Lama, emphasised that the national flag is a sovereign symbol that demands respect from all segments of society.
“We acknowledge that one case involved a person with special needs, but that must not be used as an excuse,” she said. “There must be stricter monitoring. No more accidents, no more negligence. One drop of ink can spoil the whole pot of milk.”
She made the remarks during the Kembara Merdeka DUN Kota Lama programme held at Kubang Pasu Market on Friday.
Police recently confirmed receiving 38 reports nationwide of the Jalur Gemilang being flown upside down, 17 of which were in Penang, with the remaining 21 spread across other states. Some of the incidents have gone viral on social media, prompting public outcry.
While Dr Hafidzah acknowledged the possibility that the OKU individual had acted without intent, she said the incident should still be treated as a key lesson in the lead-up to Hari Kebangsaan.
“Whether intentional or not, this must raise awareness. Everyone, including those in special communities, must be taught the proper protocol for flying the national flag.”
She called on local authorities and relevant government agencies to take a more active role in public education, particularly in issuing clear guidelines on national symbols.
This year’s Kembara Merdeka programme in Kota Lama, she added, has taken on a more hands-on approach—not only distributing flags but also physically hoisting them at strategic locations across 10 local subdistricts, including at the iconic Pasar Siti Khadijah.
“Last year we simply distributed flags. This time, we’re also helping to raise them—between 50 to 100 flags in each subdistrict,” she said. “If we come across any worn or tattered flags, we’ll take them down. This is part of our effort to educate the public on proper flag etiquette.” - August 17, 2025
