SEREMBAN: Transport Minister Anthony Loke has expressed hope that no parties will attempt to politicise the issue involving the upside-down display of the Jalur Gemilang at a school in Port Dickson recently.
He said the Education Ministry is currently investigating the matter to determine whether the mistake was intentionally done or otherwise.
“Every time such an issue arises (incorrect display of the Jalur Gemilang), there will be some who try to politicise it.
“However, we should allow the ministry to carry out its investigation and determine whether it was done intentionally or not, as the Jalur Gemilang is a symbol of national identity and must be treated with pride and respect.
“As such, there is no need for anyone to exploit this issue for political gain,” he said after launching the Merdeka Month celebrations for the Seremban parliamentary constituency at a school here today.
Yesterday, SJKC Chung Hua in Port Dickson issued a public apology over the upside-down display of the Jalur Gemilang at its premises on Friday.
The school board, Parent-Teacher Association and school administration, in a joint statement, expressed deep regret over the incident, which they described as an unintentional mistake.
They said the incident occurred on Aug 1 when a school worker mistakenly installed one of the flags upside down.
Meanwhile, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the ministry would take firm action once it receives the full investigation report on the matter.
She said the incident was serious, as all parties had been repeatedly reminded of the importance and sensitivity of the national flag.
Commenting further, Loke, who is also the Seremban member of parliament, said the Jalur Gemilang must be displayed correctly and respectfully.
“We have reminded everyone that when raising the Jalur Gemilang, it must be done properly and with respect. Sensitivity is important.
“However, mistakes can sometimes happen unintentionally, and we leave it to the ministry to investigate,” he said.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
