Melaka to take 'soft approach' to patriotism during National Month

The Melaka government in Malaysia will take a soft approach to encourage business operators to proudly display the Jalur Gemilang (the Malaysian national flag) during National Month. Datuk Rais Yasin, the state housing and local government, climate change and disaster management committee chairman, emphasized that love for the country should come from the heart and discouraged the act of punishing those who do not fly the flag with compound notices. He stated, “We will not force it although there is a by-law to issue notices to business operators who don’t display the Jalur Gemilang. Business operators will be only encouraged to hoist the flag at their premises.” Rais made these comments during a Melaka Historic City Council (MBMB) monthly gathering and Jalur Gemilang program. The event took place at the council’s office in Ayer Keroh on August 16 and was witnessed by MBMB mayor Datuk Shadan Othman.

Rais further stated that all three local councils in Melaka will be encouraged to distribute Jalur Gemilang flags to the public in their respective jurisdictions. He added, “We hope to decorate the state with a flurry of Jalur Gemilang and fly the flag with pride and honor.”

In a separate announcement, Rais disclosed that Bandar Hilir, a popular tourist spot, will undergo a trial run as a vehicle-free zone from Fridays to Sundays. The plan for the 2.4km stretch was first proposed in May by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh. Initially, the plan was rejected by traders in the area. However, after further discussions, traders have given their consent for the temporary road closure. The trial run will take place this Saturday, August 19. Buggy services will be provided along the stretch during the test run, and traders will be allowed to conduct business along the roadsides as long as they adhere to the guidelines. The aim of the vehicle-free plan is to allow tourists to appreciate the historical icons at Bandar Hilir without being interrupted by heavy traffic. The road closure will be in effect from 6pm to midnight.

Lastly, Rais announced that the state government has introduced the Hang Tuah and Hang Jebat medals to recognize outstanding local council employees. The awards will first be presented to MBMB staff before being extended to the other three local councils in Melaka.