Business premises in Penang are being encouraged to fly the Jalur Gemilang during the National Month, but there will be no penalties for those who choose not to do so, says Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Chow stated that business owners should display the national flag voluntarily as a symbol of unity and loyalty to the country.
“In Penang, there is no policy to impose penalties on businesses. We believe that this approach might be counterproductive,” said Chow.
“We should not use force to promote patriotism, and many have questioned whether flying the flag is the only way to show our love for the country.
“This topic has been debated for the past 10 to 20 years. Therefore, in Penang, we encourage people to fly the Jalur Gemilang as a gesture of unity, loyalty, and love for the country. It is not mandatory,” he added.
Chow made these remarks while talking to reporters after flagging off a motorcycle convoy called ‘Jaulah Merdeka Ride To Khairah Ummah 4.0 Tahun 2023 Malaysia Madani’ at Masjid Jamek Jelutong in George Town on August 26.
The Chief Minister was responding to a statement made by the mayor of Ipoh, Datuk Rumaizi Baharin, who mentioned that business premises in Ipoh that don’t comply with the notice to display the Jalur Gemilang during the National Month will be fined RM250 under Section 107(2) of the Local Government Act.
Regarding the Jaulah Merdeka Ride program, Chow commended the effort to bring together participants of different ages and backgrounds to ride motorcycles and engage with the community.
“As a state that has embraced the Malaysia MADANI approach, which focuses on sustainability, prosperity, innovation, respect, trust, and compassion, I hope that the people of Penang can contribute to the sustainable growth of the Malaysian economy,” he emphasized.
A convoy consisting of 200 motorcycles visited six mosques in five districts of Penang as part of the National Month celebrations and mosque activities. – Bernama
Credit: The Star : News Feed
