Malaysians question flag on school uniforms rule – pupils ‘do not care’
The education ministry says the rule is in line with the goal of schools to ‘foster the spirit of patriotism among the younger generation’
An order by Malaysia’s education ministry requiring pupils to wear a patch of the country’s flag stitched on their uniforms has been questioned by some as unnecessary, with parents and teachers saying there are better ways to instil patriotism.
Known as the Jalur Gemilang, or Stripes of Glory, the flag featuring red and white stripes as well as a yellow crescent and 14-point star on a blue background is a source of pride for many Malaysians, flown year-round at public buildings and private homes.
Before the ministry’s directive, pupils from government schools were not required to wear school uniforms bearing the national flag.
Announcing the change on Thursday, the ministry said the flag edict would apply to all schools, including matriculation colleges and teacher training institutions, and take effect on April 21.
“This initiative is in line with the function of educational institutions to instil a sense of love for the country and foster the spirit of patriotism among the younger generation,” the ministry said.
The ministry will provide two 5cm by 2.5cm flag patches for free to each student, to be displayed on the right side of their chest, parallel to their name tag.