KULAI: A giant Jalur Gemilang made from bamboo has added a patriotic touch to the celebrations for National Day and Malaysia Day at Johor’s well-known Putuo Village.
According to marketing manager Alston Lim, it took six people about a month to complete the 5m-wide and 10m-long Jalur Gemilang at the bamboo village tucked among oil palm plantations near Felda Taib Andak.
He said this was the first time the village had displayed such a unique creation.
“We wanted to celebrate National Day and Malaysia Day in a unique way that also reflects the identity of this bamboo valley.
“Bamboo has always symbolised resilience, unity and harmony with nature, values that resonate strongly with the Malaysian spirit.
“By combining the national flag with a natural and sustainable material, we hope to present a meaningful tribute to our country while creating a memorable experience for visitors,” he said.
Lim added that the bamboo poles used for the installation were treated before being painted in the weather-resistant red, white, blue and yellow colours of the Jalur Gemilang.
“We hope the Jalur Gemilang will remind Malaysians of the importance of unity, mutual respect and gratitude for the peace and harmony that we enjoy today.
“Regardless of our backgrounds, cultures or beliefs, the national flag is a symbol that brings us together as one nation,” he said.
Since the giant flag was raised on Aug 15, Lim said the village had seen a 10% increase in visitors.
He hoped the bamboo Jalur Gemilang will inspire pride and patriotism among visitors who came to view it.
“I hope that it inspires them to continue contributing positively towards the nation and community,” he said, adding that the flag will be on display until Malaysia Day on Sept 16.
Among those spotted admiring the flag was student Shanizam Abdullah, 19, who was visiting the village for the first time.
“I was unaware that there was such a massive installation of our Jalur Gemilang here.
“I find it very beautiful, and it reminds me of how proud I am to be a Malaysian, especially since it was set up to mark the country’s independence,” he said.
Meanwhile, Singaporean couple Kevin Khoo, 46, and his wife Maylene Chow, 47, said they were impressed by the installation.
The couple said they had seen photos of the bamboo valley posted on social media, but this was their first visit.
“It feels very peaceful and refreshing to be surrounded by nature, and the Jalur Gemilang installation is definitely a good addition to the experience,” said Khoo.
