Shared patriotism: Community members putting up the Jalur Gemilang in a housing area. Residents are continuing to embrace the Merdeka spirit despite ongoing flag-related disputes. — Sin Chew Daily
PETALING JAYA: A close-knit neighbourhood in Bahau, Negri Sembilan, has shown what it means to be united, undeterred by the controversies surrounding the national flag of late.
A total of 24 households comprising residents from the Chinese, Indian and Malay communities from Taman Sum Hup have chosen to fly the Jalur Gemilang with pride in front of their homes.
“I wanted to encourage each home to be a part of this patriotic display and fly our Jalur Gemilang,” said local councillor Lai Cheng Yew, who took the lead and purchased flags and flagpoles with his allowance.
“I’m so happy to see the residents participating willingly as the Merdeka celebration approaches, unaffected by the recent incidents,” he said, as reported by Sin Chew Daily.
He said the effort is not just about countering negative sentiments but to also channel the community’s energy into patriotism and away from controversies.
“I hope to instil a sense of pride and unity within the community.
“If anyone has mistakenly put up the flag, let’s remind them and rectify it without making an issue of it,” he added.
