Chinese business community urged to fly national and Sabah flags

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 Lui (third right) giving away the national and state flags to the proprietor of Chop Teo Seng sundry shop.


Lui (third right) giving away the national and state flags to the proprietor of Chop Teo Seng sundry shop.

KOTA KINABALU: Chinese businesses are urged to hoist and fly the national flag ‘Jalur Gemilang’ and Sabah state flag during the National Day, Head of State birthday and Malaysia Day celebrations.

Kota Kinabalu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KKCCCI) president Datuk Michael Lui said the chamber fully supported Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Haji Aman’s call to Sabahans to fly the national and state flags at residential houses, public places, business premises and vehicles to show their patriotism.

“I urge the Chinese community, especially businesses, to fly the national and state flags to show our patriotism and loyalty for our country from August 10 to September 16.”

Lui said that prior to distributing 150 Jalur Gemilangs and 150 Sabah state flags sponsored by the Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) to shop owners and operators at Jalan Gaya and Jalan Pantai.

In addition to the flags provided by DBKK, KKCCCI also gives away 800 national and 800 state flags to its 1,000-odd members. KKCCCI members can collect the flags at its secretariat by August 24.

Lui said DBKK had informed KKKCCCI the poor and less enthusiastic response of Chinese businesses in flying the national and state flags in previous years, and hoped that the Chinese chamber could use its influence to encourage businesses at Jalan Gaya and Jalan Pantai to adorn their premises with the flags.

He said some businesses had explained why they did not fly the flags, including the lack of space, theft and other technical issues.

“I hope our Chinese businesses can overcome these issues and show that we are citizens who love our country.”

He added that the National Day theme this year, ‘Malaysia Sehati Sejiwa’, reflected the unity, mutual understanding and harmony among Malaysians.