Latest news with #MerdekaMonth
The Star
5 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Urban Renewal Bill to be tabled this month, says Nga
PUTRAJAYA: The Urban Renewal Bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament before the current meeting ends this month, says Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming ( pic ). The Bill, which will oversee redevelopment, regeneration and revitalisation of cities and towns in Peninsular Malaysia, was initially slated to be tabled for first reading last month. 'I am planning to table the Urban Renewal Bill, which will promote prosperity among Malaysians in towns, during this Merdeka Month,' Nga said after launching the Semarak Jiwa Merdeka at his ministry here on Friday (Aug 8). The Bill proposes allowing the en bloc sale of entire strata developments even if not all the owners agree. An en bloc sale happens when all unit owners of a building agree to sell to a single buyer, often for redevelopment purposes. At present, Section 57 of the Strata Titles Act 1985 states that a strata development can only be sold if there is 100% agreement from the owners. The proposed new law aims to lower this threshold, depending on the building's condition and age. For example, if the building is less than 30 years old, it only needs 80% approval. The proposed threshold for structures above 30 years old is 75%. Meanwhile, for abandoned housing projects, a simple majority of 51% will suffice.
New Straits Times
7 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Merdeka month: Honouring our past, building our future
LETTERS: As the month of August dawns upon us, it brings with it a powerful reminder of our nation's historic journey to independence. Merdeka Month is not merely a time of festivity — it is a deeply meaningful period for all Malaysians to reflect on our shared history, appreciate the sacrifices of those who came before us, and renew our commitment to national unity and progress. On August 31st, 1957, Malaysia — then Malaya — emerged from the shadows of colonial rule and stood proud as a sovereign nation. That historic moment was not the achievement of one race, one leader, or one group, but the result of the collective struggle and cooperation of a multiethnic, multireligious society united by a common vision: freedom, dignity, and self-determination. In today's context, as our nation continues to navigate complex challenges — be it economic, social, or global — we must hold firm to the values that have held us together for more than six decades: unity in diversity, mutual respect, tolerance, and the spirit of muhibbah. Merdeka Month is a time to fly the Jalur Gemilang with pride—not just on buildings and vehicles, but in our hearts. It is a time to strengthen our sense of national identity and belonging, and to teach the younger generation the value of patriotism — not only through history books but through action: civic responsibility, care for the community, and a commitment to nation-building. As Malaysians, we must reject all forms of divisiveness—be it along racial, religious, or political lines — and instead focus on what binds us together. Patriotism is not blind loyalty; it is love for the nation expressed through active participation, accountability, and striving for a better Malaysia for all. Let us, during this Merdeka Month, celebrate not only our independence but our interdependence — the idea that we are stronger together, and that the destiny of Malaysia lies in the hands of every citizen, regardless of background. In doing so, we honour the true meaning of Merdeka, and pave the way for a future that is more united, inclusive, and resilient. Happy Merdeka. TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE
The Star
7 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Upholding respect for our flag
National pride: A big Malaysian flag waving against the background of the Kuala Lumpur city centre skyline to mark the Merdeka month celebrations. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star PETALING JAYA: Malaysians should treat and fly the Jalur Gemilang with respect and dignity during the ongoing Merdeka Month celebrations, say unity advocates. National Unity Advisory Council member Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said the national flag must be hoisted correctly and in accordance with guidelines. 'Before raising the flag, it is important to ensure it is in good condition and positioned appropriately. 'Previously, we have seen instances where the flag was displayed incorrectly, leading to controversy and unfortunate politicisation of the issue. 'Such mistakes must be avoided at all costs,' he said yesterday. The 68th National Day celebration on Aug 31 will be held at Dataran Putrajaya, with the Malaysia Day celebration on Sept 16 to be hosted in Penang under the theme 'Malaysia Madani: Rakyat Disantuni'. Lee said flying the Jalur Gemilang is a matter of national pride. 'I also urge those responsible to replace any torn, faded or tattered flags currently on display,' he said, adding that the people should take this opportunity to renew their patriotic spirit. Unity advocate Anas Zubedy said Malaysians should always be mindful when displaying the national flag. 'The colours of our flag reflect core national values of unity, sincerity, courage and dignity,' said Anas. 'By responding with compassion and wisdom, we show the strength of our Malaysian identity. 'Let this Merdeka be a time where we fly the flag not just proudly, but with understanding and with our hearts,' he added. According to the Information Department's guidebook Bendera Kita Jalur Gemilang, the use of the national flag in forms such as clothing should be avoided, with the exception of the Merdeka Month celebration. The flag must not be used in ways that are seen as demeaning to the Jalur Gemilang, such as being made into tablecloths, headscarves, umbrellas, songkok, hats, bath towels, cushion covers and other similar items, the guidebook stated. Flags that are faded, torn or in poor condition should not be flown, as they are considered worn-out, and doing so would be disrespectful, it said. The guidebook states that such flags should not be disposed of in rubbish bins but be destroyed in a respectful manner, such as by burning them privately.
Sinar Daily
04-08-2025
- Politics
- Sinar Daily
DAP leaders urge forgiveness, Umno Youth demands 'stern action' over flag incident
The latest controversy, an upside-down flag flown at a Chinese primary school in Port Dickson, has once again stirred public outrage, with political voices now calling for calm. Coming just weeks before National Day, the incident has raised uncomfortable questions: Are national symbols being treated with the respect they deserve? Why do such errors keep recurring in vernacular schools? - Bernama photo for illustration purpose only SHAH ALAM – From missing stripes to misplaced colours, Malaysia's beloved Jalur Gemilang has seen its share of design mishaps. The latest controversy, an upside-down flag flown at a Chinese primary school in Port Dickson, has once again stirred public outrage, with political voices now calling for calm. The incident occurred at a Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina (SJKC) in Port Dickson, where a worker mistakenly hoisted the national flag in reverse. Images quickly went viral, reigniting public frustration over repeated blunders involving the country's most important national symbol. Coming just weeks before National Day, the incident has raised uncomfortable questions: Are national symbols being treated with the respect they deserve? Why do such errors keep recurring in vernacular schools? DAP Lukut state assemblyman Choo Ken Hwa confirmed that the flag was flown upside down, but quickly clarified that the mistake was made by a mentally disabled worker. "This happened because the headmaster had engaged a worker with an intellectual disability and he was the one who put up the flags around the school. "He used an old flag, and when putting it up, it was placed upside down. After being informed by the public, the flag was taken down within two hours," Choo said in the 15th Negeri Sembilan State Legislative Assembly. Choo went further, urging the public to stop spreading the image and not to blow the issue out of proportion. "I was on the ground that day. I personally coordinated the programme with the school and PIBG. This is not a matter to go viral," he said, urging that the issue be forgiven and forgotten. Many Malaysians are not so quick to forget. The upside-down flag, universally recognised as a sign of distress or disrespect, has appeared before in similar contexts, often involving Chinese schools. DAP Secretary-General Anthony Loke echoed the sentiment, warning against politicising the matter. 'Every time something like this happens, there will be people who try to make it political. I believe this was just a mistake. The Education Ministry is investigating whether it was intentional or not. There is no need for any party to take advantage of this for political gain,' Loke told reporters after launching the Merdeka Month celebrations in Seremban. Loke also reminded all Malaysians to treat the Jalur Gemilang with respect, especially during National Month. 'We always remind everyone, when we fly the Jalur Gemilang, do it correctly and respectfully. Sensitivity is important,' he said, adding that schools should set the right example in fostering patriotism. The school involved, SJKC Chung Hua, has since issued a public apology for the mistake, with both the PIBG and Board of Governors expressing regret over the incident. Despite apologies from the school and DAP leaders, the backlash has not abated. Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh has called for stern action to be taken against those responsible. Port Dickson police chief Maslan Udin confirmed that a 30-year-old suspect has been identified in connection with the case. 'The flag was brought down on the same day. We hope the public will stop circulating the photograph,' he said. Authorities are investigating the incident under four separate laws: Section 504 of the Penal Code — Intentional insult likely to provoke a breach of peace or another offence (up to two years' imprisonment, a fine, or both). Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955 — Indecent, abusive, or threatening behaviour likely to disturb public peace. Section 5 of the Emblems and Names Act 1963 — Prohibits unauthorised use of protected emblems or names (up to RM20,000 fine, three years' prison, or both). Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 — Criminalises transmission of offensive or false content intended to annoy, abuse, or harass (fines and potential imprisonment). This is not an isolated case. In April this year, a local Chinese-language newspaper apologised after publishing a front-page image of the Jalur Gemilang without its crescent moon, a key symbol of Malaysia's Islamic heritage. The error appeared in its April 15 edition covering the arrival of Chinese President Xi Jinping in Malaysia. The artwork depicted a symbolic boat carrying the Malaysian and Chinese flags to mark bilateral ties. More Like This
New Straits Times
04-08-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Don't politicise school flag incident, says Loke
SEREMBAN: Transport Minister Anthony Loke has expressed hope that no parties will attempt to politicise the issue involving the upside-down display of the Jalur Gemilang at a school in Port Dickson recently. He said the Education Ministry is currently investigating the matter to determine whether the mistake was intentionally done or otherwise. "Every time such an issue arises (incorrect display of the Jalur Gemilang), there will be some who try to politicise it. "However, we should allow the ministry to carry out its investigation and determine whether it was done intentionally or not, as the Jalur Gemilang is a symbol of national identity and must be treated with pride and respect. "As such, there is no need for anyone to exploit this issue for political gain," he said after launching the Merdeka Month celebrations for the Seremban parliamentary constituency at a school here today. Yesterday, SJKC Chung Hua in Port Dickson issued a public apology over the upside-down display of the Jalur Gemilang at its premises on Friday. The school board, Parent-Teacher Association and school administration, in a joint statement, expressed deep regret over the incident, which they described as an unintentional mistake. They said the incident occurred on Aug 1 when a school worker mistakenly installed one of the flags upside down. Meanwhile, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the ministry would take firm action once it receives the full investigation report on the matter. She said the incident was serious, as all parties had been repeatedly reminded of the importance and sensitivity of the national flag. Commenting further, Loke, who is also the Seremban member of parliament, said the Jalur Gemilang must be displayed correctly and respectfully. "We have reminded everyone that when raising the Jalur Gemilang, it must be done properly and with respect. Sensitivity is important. "However, mistakes can sometimes happen unintentionally, and we leave it to the ministry to investigate," he said.
