BANGKOK, 18 April- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that issues involving the national flag cannot be taken lightly, as it is a symbol of the country's sovereignty and dignity.

He cautioned all parties to be careful and not to take lightly any errors involving the Jalur Gemilang.

However, the Prime Minister stressed that the investigation must proceed according to the due process of law, without pressure or excessive action.

"For any country, the issue of the flag is a very important symbol. So, I advise that we be careful, but of course, give Sin Chew space to explain the mistake and apologize," he said to Malaysian reporters at the end of his two-day working visit here today.

"But, this is not a trivial matter, let the legal process take its course. However, I also said not to make it seem like we are being excessive, just because of demands; they must follow the legal process," Anwar said.

In a related development, the authorities are expected to conduct further investigations into the case, taking into account the explanation that will be submitted by the newspaper involved.