THE Information Department has been active in promoting the correct way of using and respecting the Jalur Gemilang.
Sabah Deputy Information Director Supian Musa said, among the Department’s initiatives were publishing guidebooks and pamphlets – both physical and digital.
“As Malaysians, we should be proud and take good care of the Jalur Gemilang so that its sovereignty is always preserved,” he said.
“In the past, we often heard cases involving misuse and incorrect installation of the flag, as well as incidents of insulting the Jalur Gemilang that were reported in the media and went viral on social media.”
He said, the steps taken by the Information Department were in line with efforts to curb the misuse and abuse of the Jalur Gemilang which can create a negative impact on the country.
Some of the examples of misuses of the Jalur Gemilang.
“We found that after the launch of the book along with the implementation of awareness campaigns carried out by the Information Department, these efforts have shown a positive effect where media reports related to the misuse of the Jalur Gemilang had reduced or no longer reported.
“We also receive many inquiries regarding the use of the flag from individuals or private agencies or companies, which is indirectly an indicator of the increased level of public awareness regarding the procedure for using the Jalur Gemilang,” he said.
The Information Department, he said, will continue to carry out awareness activities, especially during the National Month, to provide a better understanding and education to the public through programmes organised at all levels.
“Various programmes have been implemented, including the ‘Konvoi Merdeka Keluarga Malaysia’, Info on Wheels (IoW), ‘Semarak Gemilang’ programme and the latest ‘Merdeka@Komuniti’ programme.
“All these programmes are carried out physically on the field and through these programmes, information officers will explain the correct installation procedures of the Jalur Gemilang as well as encourage the public to further enliven the National Day celebrations by flying the national flag at their respective premises.
“In addition to awareness programmes through physical activities, the Sabah Information Department also uses all available digital platforms by uploading infographics and videos on this matter so that the Jalur Gemilang will be more respected and praised by all levels of ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ in the State.”
He said, the public can obtain publication materials related to the use of the Jalur Gemilang for free from the Sabah Information Department office, through the National Policy Publication Division, or the “Pusat Maklumat Rakyat” at all District Information Offices.
The public, he said, can also obtain related information in the form of a digital book or DBook through the Information Department website by accessing www.penerangan.gov.my or dbook.penerangan.gov.my.
“It is hoped that with the availability of these reference materials, the Jalur Gemilang will always be preserved as well as be able to enhance the spirit of national identity in respecting and defending the country’s sovereignty,” he said.
