History of Three Flag Raisers During Independence Day to be Documented

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 8 (Bernama) -- The Royal Malaysian Navy together with the National Archives of Malaysia will document the history of three men who raised the Federation of Malaya flag during the Declaration of Independence Day at the Merdeka Stadium here on Aug 31, 1957. Navy deputy chief Vice Admiral Anuwi Hassan (second, right) said the three navy officers who were the late Chief Petty Officer Seaman Awang Mohd Salleh, Chief Petty Officer Oliver Cuthbert Samuel (second, left) and Lt Commander (Rtd) Mohd Sharif Kalam (left) would be registered as the flag raisers in the National Archives. "The navy will certainly document the three flag raisers who worked in a team, whereby the late Awang was the task supervisor, Oliver held the rope, and Mohd Shariff held the flag to be raised. "Raising the flag requires team work. It's better to clarify it, otherwise, it will continue to be an issue in the future about who raised the flag on Independence Day," he said. Anuwi said this during a press conference held in conjunction with the matter here, Thursday. He said gatherings on documenting history would be held from time to time to pay tribute to the ‘unsung heroes’ as well as recognise their contributions. "It is also aimed at raising the spirit of patriotism and love for the country not only among navy personnel but the people as well," he said. Also present was Malaysian Historical Society chairman Omar Mohd Hashim (centre). Commenting on the effort, Omar said the history of the three flag raisers should be highlighted and included in History textbooks. (photoBERNAMA) -- BERNAMA