Pm Don T Use Flag Issue To Sow Racial Discord

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Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged Malaysians not to use issues surrounding the national flag as a pretext to fuel racial divisions.
He said while the Jalur Gemilang must be respected as a symbol of sovereignty, it should not be exploited to provoke ethnic tensions.
“Sometimes, when we are at peace, people start making assumptions. They provoke fights, want to quarrel over the flag, and some heat up the temperature of racial division,” he was quoted as saying by Astro Awani.
Anwar made the remarks at the launch of Mildef International Technologies Sdn Bhd’s armoured vehicle plant in Seremban today.
ADSHe added that while any misconduct involving the flag must be addressed, it should be handled appropriately.
“Don’t misunderstand me, I am not saying the flag is unimportant. It is a symbol of national pride and must be safeguarded.
“If such incidents still occur - whether in government agencies or the private sector - there must be action. However, don’t assume everything is fine, because it isn’t,” he said.
Akmal charged
Recently, Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh came under the authorities’ radar after his Jalur Gemilang rally outside a hardware store in Penang, following the shop owner’s mistake in placing the national flag upside down.
Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh addressing participants at a flag rally in Kepala Batas on Aug 14The Merlimau assemblyperson insisted the gathering was held peacefully and aimed to send a clear message that Malaysians will not tolerate disrespect toward the national symbol.
Akmal had since been charged at the Bukit Mertajam Magistrate’s Court under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code over a video containing extreme remarks, which allegedly pressured prosecutors to initiate charges.
The Umno leader pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Peace doesn’t come free
On that note, Anwar reminded Malaysians that peace is not free but the result of sacrifices by the security forces, stressing the need to remain prepared against regional instability.
“Our country is peaceful because of the preparations, services and sacrifices made by our security personnel… but it may not last.
“Who knew there would be a conflict between Thailand and Cambodia? Who knew the conflict in Myanmar would last this long until its after-effects spread to Thailand, Bangladesh and Malaysia?
“That’s why we must always be prepared. Don’t use this excuse to make money illegally,” he added. - Mkini

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