Cop Veterans Have Community Service Penalties Over Inverted Flag Display

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The Malaysian Police Veterans’ Welfare Association (VPOL) has voiced its disappointment over the recurring practice of flying the Jalur Gemilang upside down, calling it a disrespect to the nation’s symbol and the sacrifices of its heroes.
VPOL said such incidents occur almost every year, and the act is especially disheartening during the month of independence celebrations and in the lead-up to Malaysia Day in September.
As a deterrent, VPOL proposed amending existing laws to introduce community service sentences for those who hang the flag upside down or otherwise insult it.
VPOL secretary-general Shafiq Izwan Yunos said in a statement that penalties should include mandatory participation in patriotism and civic ethics courses, as well as delivering public awareness talks on the Malaysian flag.
According to VPOL, such measures would serve as an educational step before harsher punishments are imposed.
“Heavier penalties should be considered for repeat offences, and excuses such as accidental or unintentional should no longer be accepted as valid defences in subsequent cases,” Shafiq said.
VPOL emphasised that community service would not only correct offenders’ understanding of national pride but also serve as a reminder to the wider public, helping to prevent such acts from recurring.
The association stressed that the national flag represents the country’s identity as an independent and sovereign nation, and that every Malaysian should respect and take pride in displaying it.
A Penang hardware store owner goes viral over inverted Jalur Gemilang while trying to hang it up“The struggles of national heroes who sacrificed their lives to ensure our flag could be flown as a symbol of independence should never be taken lightly,” he added.
Clarifying facts
A Penang hardware shop owner had explained that he was measuring the length of an iron pole while hanging the national flag and did not notice that the flag was upside down.
He apologised and said he went to the Kepala Batas police station at 1.30pm to lodge a report to take responsibility, clarify the facts, and provide an explanation.
This latest flag blunder went viral on social media after a Facebook account under the name “Nazirul Hafiz” posted a 20-second video of the incident.
Seberang Perai Utara district police chief Anuar Abd Rahman yesterday said investigations were underway, including recording statements from the complainant and the suspect involved in the incident. - Mkini

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