Demonstrate love for country through actions, says MP

MUKAH: Igan MP Ahmad Johnie Zawawi has expressed concern over the lack of spirited displays of love for country.

“Loyalty to the country must be demonstrated through actions, and what is most concerning is when love for country gradually ebbs,” he said.

“The same goes for the Jalur Gemilang, not many people fly it at their respective premises,” he lamented.

He made these observations at the launching of the 2024 Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang convoy at the Tian Community Hall, here.

Elaborating, he said that in the past, Aug 31 was a date celebrated together by the entire population, regardless of race.

“However, this has now diminished, and I commend the initiative taken by the Malaysian Information Department (JaPen) to tirelessly remind us of our responsibility as Malaysians through this convoy every year.

In this respect he said the people must understand the meaning of the Rukun Negara principles and the significance of the Jalur Gemilang as part of appreciating independence.

He stressed that there is no point in a country being developed if its people are not united and do not uphold good values.

Earlier, Sarawak JaPen Assistant Director Roszilawati Nor Aziz said the mission of the 2024 convoy is to encourage all citizens to fly the Jalur Gemilang as a symbol of love for the country.

She said the programme supports the One House, One Jalur Gemilang Campaign.

She also reminded people not to be easily deceived by the spread of fake news and to verify the authenticity of information from responsible parties, whether through the official portals of government departments, information shared by JaPen, or other government agencies.