KUALA LUMPUR, April 17 – His Majesty, Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, has issued a firm reminder that the Jalur Gemilang is a powerful emblem of national sovereignty and identity, and must never be mocked or misrepresented. Referencing the recent controversy involving Sin Chew Daily’s publication of the national flag without the crescent moon, the King stressed that such mistakes could deeply offend public sensitivities and must not be tolerated in a diverse and multiracial society.
In a Facebook post, His Majesty urged Malaysians to uphold patriotism and pride when displaying the flag, which he described as a symbol of the nation’s struggles, independence, and unity. He also called on the newspaper’s management to be more vigilant and responsible with published content. The Home Ministry has since launched an investigation into the incident, warning of serious consequences under national laws for actions that jeopardise public harmony and disrespect national symbols.
