KUALA LUMPUR, April 23- The move to require students to wear the Jalur Gemilang is a proactive effort by educational institutions to instill the spirit of patriotism from the beginning.
Lecturer at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Malaya and Certified Integrity Officer of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), Dr. Muhammad Shamshinor Abdul Azzis, said it functions as a form of positive indoctrination to instill a sense of love and responsibility towards the country among students.
"The issue of students being asked to wear the flag is actually an initial step to instill and indoctrinate patriotism. From a psychological point of view, it is important to instill a sense of love and affection for the country from an early age," he said.
He said this to reporters after being a guest in the Selamat Pagi Malaysia programme at Wisma Berita, Angkasapuri Kota Media, here.
Flying the national flag is a symbol of national dignity and identity that every citizen must protect.
"Our flag has been flying since 1950. It is not just a cloth, but the face of our country. We need to educate students not only to display the flag, but to learn to care for and respect it.
"Malaysia is our home, so it is our responsibility to preserve it," he said.
In the context of integrity, Muhammad Shamshinor praised the existing ecosystem that supports efforts to strengthen the integrity of the country, as well as emphasizing the seriousness and ability to implement it.
Referring to the Governor Integrity and Anti-Social (MPGIA) Module which has been made mandatory for all government organizations, it is an example of a relevant initiative, in addition to the responsibility of the private sector to comply with the provisions under Section 17A of the MACC Act relating to corporate liability.
"The private sector is also no exception. They need to implement adequate procedures to ensure that corporate integrity is maintained, in line with the requirements of the law," he added.
It is hoped that this effort can strengthen the culture of integrity and patriotism among the people, especially the younger generation, for the sake of Malaysia's future.