‘Time to fly the flag’

Minister: Don’t wait for Jalur Gemilang to be given

KLUANG: The National Unity Ministry urges Malaysians to display the Jalur Gemilang at their homes sooner rather than later for the National Day celebration on Aug 31.

Minister Datuk Halimah Mohamed Sadique said displaying the national flag at home would show the people’s love and affection for the country.

“The public should not wait for the government to hand out flags for free but instead buy the item as soon as possible.

“It is our responsibility to fly the Jalur Gemilang, especially at our respective homes,” she said.

Halimah said this after handing over two units of rapid temperature scanners (RTS) from three Lions Clubs to Hospital Enche’ Besar Hajjah Kalsom here yesterday.

On another matter, she said the ministry hoped to get the public’s feedback to draft a national unity action plan that would further strengthen unity in the country.

Halimah said there would be roadshows all over the country starting this month to get responses from Malaysians on the matter.

“We want to hear opinions from the public on ways we can improve unity in the country and their aspirations for Malaysia. It is important for them to have their voices heard.

“Feedback like this will later be used to refine the national unity plan and to ensure the plan is effective and to attain objectives,” she said.

She added that the plan, expected to be launched later this year, would emphasise the Rukunegara.

Halimah said the roadshows would be held in every state in rural and urban areas where people could stop by to share their views on the matter.

“We plan to start the initiative as soon as possible during the National Day celebration month, which is expected to run until September.

“The idea is for the people to be responsible for the unity plan instead of the government making the decisions for them,” she said.