A CEREMONY to raise the Jalur Gemilang at Dataran Merdeka will be held on the first week of every month to foster patriotism and attract tourists, says Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif.
Speaking to reporters after the first flag raising ceremony at the square yesterday, she said a list of dates would be posted soon so people could plan ahead.
“The next flag raising is set to take place in March and visitors can check for the event date at the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) website.
“To increase participation, schools will also be invited to take part in the near future,” she said, adding that the morning ceremony would start at 9am and last around 30 minutes.
“In addition to fostering the spirit of patriotism and providing an opportunity for local and international tourists to witness and experience the history of Dataran Merdeka, the event is aimed at strengthening the relationship between DBKL and the community.
“This ceremony is also part of our effort to preserve Dataran Merdeka as an important location that symbolises the history and unity of the Malaysian people,” she said.
The inaugural flag raising attended by Maimunah and senior DBKL officials was a colourful event which saw the local authority’s marching band and choir taking part.
City Hall Enforcement Department’s Equestrian Unit also performed and was the centre of attention as passers-by took photos with the horses.
Maimunah noted that flag ceremonies were not new as they had been carried out before, although not on a regular basis, so the Feb 3 event marks its revival.
