OBSERVERS:SUGGESTION TO CHANGE M'SIAN FLAG DISRESPECTFUL

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 20 (Bernama) -- Several socio-political observers have
described the opposition's suggestion of wanting to change the Malaysian flag -
the Jalur Gemilang - as the symbol of Malaysia's identity as impertinent and
disrespectful.

The observers were asked by Bernama to comment on the recent media reports
about the statement by state assemblyman from DAP M. Manoharan that the
opposition would change the Jalur Gemilang if they came into power in the next
general elections.

They were of the opinion that the opposition should not touch upon the
sacred symbols of the country in their desperation to distract people from the
weaknesses of their coalition and leaders.

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (National University, Malaysia), School of
History, Politics and Strategic Studies, senior lecturer Abd Ghapa Harun
emphasised: "The Jalur Gemilang is the right of all Malaysians, so is the
national anthem and other national institutions. It cannot be changed just like
that unless there is very compelling reason to do so and it must be done with
the people's consensus."

Universiti Sains Malaysia (Science University, Malaysia) Social Science
Studies, lecturer, Prof Dr Ahmad Atory Hussain felt the assemblyman's statement
clearly showed his disrespect for the country.

Dr Ahmad said even if he did not respect the government and Umno (United
Malays National Organisation), everyone including the opposition must respect
the country's flag which included images of unity and the powers of the
sultanate. Umno is Malaysia's largest political party; a founding member of the
National Front coalition, which has played a dominant role in Malaysian politics
since independence

"They have really run out of issues. They should be a better opposition.
There are many other issues to be raised such as unemployment and the economy,"
he added.

Azli Abdullah, a history observer was dissappointed with the issue as he
felt the assemblyman who gained his position based on the principles of
democracy and honourable constitution had treated the symbol of the country
frivolously.

"It is easy to find fault with the government which slogs hard on policies
and development programmes, to accuse them of corruption and such. But why not
present better policies and programmes? It is sad that Malaysia has such a
shallow opposition," he said.