Zahidi (centre) present a memento and a Jalur Gemilang to Seremban Fire and Rescue chief Senior Supt II Khir-Amir Ahmad at the event. — Bernama photo
SEREMBAN: A heavier punishment should be imposed upon those who deliberately fly the Jalur Gemilang upside down and insult the national coat-of arms, says Deputy Minister of Communications and Multimedia Datuk Zahidi Zainul Abidin.
Citing Thailand which imposed severe punishments on those who insulted the country, including its King, he said such a stern action would be a lesson to deter others from doing the same mistake.
“Those who fly the Jalur Gemilang upside down and insult the national coat-of-arms should be arrested , and if possible, stern action taken against them because in other countries, it is rare for people to insult the national flag and the coat of arm, as well as the King,” he told reporters after opening the ‘Merdeka@Komuniti’ and ‘Ziarah Kasih Merdeka’ programmes here yesterday.
Also present were Rantau assemblyman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Negeri Sembilan Information director Shahnon Mohamad.
Zahidi said imposing heavy punishment on such offenders would be a lesson to others.
“We do not want to have people in the country trying to create disharmony – if they’re not happy over something, don’t take it on the national flag or the coat-of-arms,” he stressed.
However, he said the ministry would continue to step up efforts to make the people understand why they must respect the national flag and the coat-of-arms, which are the symbols of the nation.
“The ministry will continue with the ‘Fly Jalur Gemilang’campaign,” he added.
On yesterday’s programme, Zahidi said although the country was under the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO), it should not be used as an excuse to not enliven the National Month celebration.
“This year’s celebration is according to the new normal but we do not want the Merdeka celebration this time around to be less lively or less enthusiastic. So we try our best to ensure that the people understand and practise the principles of Rukun Negara and ignite the patriotic spirit,” he added.
The Merdeka @ Komuniti programme was conducted by the Information Department, aimed at igniting the spirit of patriotism and love for the country. The programme yesterday drew participation from 250 people coming from all walks of life. The activities included hoisting the national flag, ‘Merdeka Info On Wheels’ and patriotic song singing contest. — Bernama