MIRI: A social worker is against the idea of changing the national flag as it will cause adverse effects to the spirit of patriotism, especially among the younger generation.
Mimbar Permuakatan Ibu Bapa Malaysia (Mapim) Sarawak president Wan Zain Syed Mohdzar believes the Jalur Gemilang should remain as it is as it has become a symbol of unity and harmony for all Malaysians since decades ago.
“We strongly oppose the idea of changing the Malaysian flag just because it resembles the United States national flag. Such action seems to belittle the
efforts of our forefathers to achieve independence,” he told The Borneo Post yesterday.
He further said if the flag were to be changed it would create confusion among the younger generation and might affect their patriotism and love for the country.
“Many people recognise this flag since their school days and the spirit of patriotism resonates in
them when they hear the national anthem ‘Negaraku’ and see the flag raised,” he said.
Wan Zain also said the changing of the flag would only cause foreign countries to be confused with our national identity.
“Our country has been long recognised by other countries by our flag which is known worldwide,” he added.
Meanwhile, he praised Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s courageous action to repeal the Internal Security Act (ISA), which proved that he was concerned for the people’s welfare regardless of their political differences.