PETALING JAYA: Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Salleh and DAP's Jelutong MP RSN Rayer have slammed the display of an Israeli flag during a pro-Palestine rally in Kelantan, describing it as insensitive and disrespectful.
In a Facebook post on Sunday (Oct 12), Dr Akmal said the Israeli flag should never be displayed in Malaysia, even for symbolic or artistic intent.
He said that as flags represent a nation's honour, the Israeli flag should not be given any recognition given the cruelty inflicted on Palestinians.
"I demand that the organisers who raised the Israeli flag as part of a performance gimmick apologise," he said.
Rayer, in a separate statement, also condemned the act and urged authorities to investigate those involved.
He said the Israeli flag has no place in Malaysia and flying it – even for symbolic re-enactment – was deeply offensive to those standing in solidarity with the people of Palestine.
"It is completely unacceptable for anyone to use the flag of a regime that continues to commit atrocities against Palestinians," Rayer said, calling for stricter oversight for such events.
The flag was seen during the 500-boat Kelantan Solidarity Flotilla for Gaza rally along Sungai Kelantan last Friday, which drew thousands of participants.
