Kuala Lumpur: The recent display of the Jalur Gemilang without its crescent moon should never have occurred, and all parties must ensure that such incidents are not repeated, stated National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang. He emphasized that these mistakes can cause public unease and undermine the spirit of unity and harmony that Malaysians have long upheld.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Aaron expressed deep regret over the incident, highlighting the importance of the Jalur Gemilang as a national symbol. He urged agencies, media outlets, and private organizations to verify the accuracy of the Jalur Gemilang before displaying it, particularly on public platforms or at official events. When asked about the adequacy of the apologies from involved parties, Aaron said that while apologies are a good first step, any further actions should be determined by the relevant authorities.
Last Tuesday, the Sin Chew Daily published an incomplete image of the Jalur Gemilang on its front page while covering Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Malaysia. The flag shown was missing the crescent moon, a key symbol representing Islam, the country’s official religion. The newspaper later issued a public apology, calling the incident an unintentional technical error.
Similarly, Singapore-based baby food company Singapore Lactation Bakes (SLB) apologized after a promotional video at a baby product exhibition in Kuala Lumpur showed the Malaysian flag without the crescent. SLB acknowledged the Jalur Gemilang’s importance as a national symbol representing Malaysia’s identity and unity, expressing regret over the oversight.
In a separate development, Aaron announced that the ministry is currently conducting its third National Unity Index (IPNas) to assess social cohesion in the country. The current score stands at a moderate level, around 0.6, with a target of 0.7, indicating a stable level of unity. The survey is being conducted by local university professors through a nationwide poll.
During his keynote address, Aaron proposed expanding the Rukun Negara Education Module to all kindergartens, including those under the Ministry of Education, KEMAS preschools, and private early childhood centers. Currently, 1,781 Unity Preschools have implemented the module, which incorporates teachings on patriotism, unity, and moral values.
He added that the ministry aims to increase Rukun Negara Clubs and Secretariats in schools and higher learning institutions to instill national values and unity among the younger generation. Aaron emphasized that these initiatives reflect the ministry’s commitment to nurturing unity from early childhood through adulthood, in line with the vision of building a harmonious and united Malaysia.