KUALA LUMPUR: Every Malaysian should fly the Jalur Gemilang in conjunction with the National Day on Aug 31.
National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM) psychological counselling expert Prof Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzil Che Din said the public need to understand the concept of celebrating independence by expressing their feelings especially during the national day celebration.
He said there were usually two things to do to express feelings of joy (during the national month) - singing patriotic songs and flying the national flag.
“From this we can see that flying the flag is something that is really important for us to express our pleasure and joy.
“Every human being has certain elements in them appreciating the achievements of the nation, at the same time having a positive attitude,” said Mohamed Fadzil, who is also president of Yayasan Gagasan Pendidikan Kebangsaan (Gagasan).
But there were peole who were not too eager to fly the Jalur Gamilang.
“People must be proud of their country and from the psychological aspect, someone who does not fly or display the flag, does not possess the spirit of independence, achievement and happiness,” he said.
However, the spirit of love and loyalty to the country could not be judged solely from one’s action to fly the national flag.
“We can’t call people who don’t fly the flag as being negative, probably they have flags inside their houses or rooms. So we can’t say they didn’t fly the flag at all.
“Flying the flag is an easy way for people to show their loyalty and love for the country,” he said.
Event manager at a private company S. Harikeshwaran, 29, said patriotism and love for the country had been instilled in him from childhood.
“We (family) used to live near a military camp. We grew up in an environment full of patriotic souls, and even hanging a flag (in the house) had an extraordinary feeling,” he said.
Human resources officer at a private company, Hasnul Huari Abdullah, 29, also feels a sense of pride in flying the Jalur Gemilang.
“Flying the Jalur Gemilang gives a different feeling. It is has an aura of its own,” he said.
Lawyer Nelson Wong Yi Hau, 29, felt it was important for all Malaysians to fly the Jalur Gemilang in conjunction with the National Day, and even better if it could be done all the time.
“The Jalur Gemilang is an object of pride to every Malaysian. It symbolises the sacrifice, freedom and pride of the people of Malaysia,” he said.
Malaysia will be celebrating its 62nd National Day on Aug 31. - Bernama