The more the merrier: Ibrahim and his family decorating the front of their house with the Jalur Gemilang and state flags. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
KEPALA BATAS: If you happen to pass by Kampung Dua Puluh, Pasir Gebu here, you sure can’t miss Ibrahim Yahya’s house.
The 58-year-old retiree, together with his family, have put up about 1,000 Jalur Gemilang and different state flags in front of their house in an effort to enliven the spirit of independence.
With help from his wife, their children and spouses, as well as neighbours, they took about two weeks to complete the flag decoration.
“We’re doing our part to show our patriotism in conjunction with Malaysia’s 65th National Day,” he said when met at his house.
Ibrahim said although he uses a cane to support his walk, it did not prevent him from putting up the flags.
“I used my own creativity and got help from my family. We forked out about RM700 to buy the Jalur Gemilang and other states’ flags in various sizes. I got my supply from an online shop and finished the decoration in about two weeks.”
He said the idea to put up the flags along the road in front of his house came from last year during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“During the pandemic, we only put up the Jalur Gemilang and Penang flags at the front of our house.
“But this year, after discussing it with my wife and family, I told them why not do something extra by including other state flags.
“By including all state flags, the Keluarga Malaysia spirit is truly reflected,” he said, adding that he put up a banner, too, as part of the flag decoration.
The former public bus conductor said he felt proud that shouts of “Merdeka!” could be heard every time villagers pass by their house.
“I plan to put up more flags next year and if possible, attract participation from the villagers of Kampung Dua Puluh.
“Next year, I plan to build an arch in front of our house. I hope this can be materialised with the help from other villagers.
“It is important for Malaysians to always have a sense of patriotism in their hearts, and putting up flags is one of the efforts they can do, starting from their own house or workplace.
“I find that the younger generation nowadays has become less patriotic. Back in those days, you can see people putting up flags anywhere during the independence month but now, you can hardly see any except at government buildings and public places,” he added.
Ibrahim said the decoration would remain until Malaysia Day on Sept 16 before they are taken down and kept for the following year.
