PETALING JAYA: As Malaysia approaches this year’s Merdeka celebrations, the G25 group of prominent Malaysians has expressed concern over what it describes as attempts by certain politicians to politicise an incident involving the national flag.
In a statement, G25 warned that turning the matter into an opportunity for public confrontation instead of reasoned discussion risked drawing opposing groups to the same location and creating a flashpoint for conflict.
“This is not the Malaysia our founding fathers envisioned when they fought for our independence.
“They envisioned a nation built on unity, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to harmony.
“Turning national symbols into political tools undermines those values,” the group said on Wednesday (Aug 13).
G25 called on all political leaders to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could provoke tensions or inflame public sentiment.
They said disputes, particularly those involving national symbols, should be addressed within the rule of law, through calm dialogue and with due regard for public safety.
The group also urged authorities to act decisively to mediate between parties, maintain public order and prevent any escalation that could threaten peace.
It noted that with Malaysia holding the Asean chairmanship this year, the eyes of the region and the international community were on the country, making it all the more important to lead by example.
“This Merdeka, let us set aside political theatre and recommit ourselves to the values that brought our nation into being, which are the respect for the rule of law and human rights, care for one another and the determination to keep Malaysia a safe and harmonious home for all,” G25 said.
