Don’t turn the Jalur Gemilang into a political weapon

 

THE Jalur Gemilang belongs to every Malaysian. It is a symbol of our shared identity, our sovereignty and our pride as a nation.

It should unite us, not become another political weapon.

When the national flag is displayed incorrectly, the first question should be simple: was it deliberate, or was it an honest mistake?

That distinction matters.

Deliberate disrespect should be dealt with appropriately. But an inadvertent mistake should be corrected, explained and resolved, not immediately turned into a political spectacle.

Too often, incidents involving the flag are amplified before the facts are established. People are publicly condemned, patriotism is questioned and political narratives are quickly constructed around what may simply have been human error.

Political leaders should show leadership by calming situations rather than competing in outrage. There must also be consistency.

We cannot express outrage selectively depending on who made the mistake, which community is involved or whether the incident fits a convenient political narrative.

Patriotism cannot be selectively enforced.

If Malaysians begin to fear that one incorrectly hung flag could lead to public humiliation or accusations of disloyalty, we risk discouraging the very patriotism we claim to promote.

During Merdeka and Malaysia Day, we should want more people, businesses, schools and communities to proudly display the Jalur Gemilang, not make them afraid to do so.

More importantly, patriotism is not measured only by how perfectly someone hangs a flag. It is reflected in how we treat fellow Malaysians, uphold integrity, respect our institutions and contribute to the country.

Nobody has a monopoly on patriotism.

The Jalur Gemilang is bigger than any politician, political party or election cycle.

Correct mistakes without humiliating people. Defend the flag without weaponising it. Promote patriotism without turning it into a political test.

Our flag should bring Malaysians together. Let us keep it that way. 

Darshan Singh is a Focus Malaysia viewer.

The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT. 

- Focus Malaysia.