KUCHING: The organiser of an event which saw a group of activists refusing to stand up for the national anthem has condemned the action as disrespectful.
Terabai Kenyalang Heritage Association also said their behaviour has tainted the image of the Dayak-based association, adding that members of the Sarawak for Sarawakians group who sat throughout the Negaraku were “irresponsible” and “immature”.
“There are other ways to show their protest if they’re not happy with the federal government, but don’t be disrespectful towards the national anthem,” group spokesman William Mangor said today after giving his statement to the police who are investigating the incident.
“Sarawak is still part of Malaysia and their actions have tainted us as organisers,” he added.
Police have said action could be taken against those who disrespect the national anthem, as it was an offence under the National Anthem Act.
Police have also recorded statements from seven S4S members.
Mangor said even if the national anthem of another country was played, people should stand up as a mark of respect.
“I don’t think we’ll be happy if others do not respect our state anthem,” he added.
He said 160 guests comprising NGOs and activists had attended the event last Friday, including those from the peninsula.
He said the national anthem was played before the state anthem as part of the protocol.
“However, at that time, we did not realise that the S4S members did not stand for the national anthem,” he said.
S4S has since defended its members’ action, saying it was a silent protest to show dissatisfaction over unfulfilled promises to the state. - FMT
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