UMNO Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhammad Akmal Saleh has praised the Johor state government for taking swift action against an industrial premises where the Jalur Gemilang was found displayed upside down.
In a Facebook post, Akmal congratulated the state government for temporarily shutting down the premises, saying firm action should be taken against those responsible.
“Congratulations to the Johor state government for acting swiftly by seizing the factory.
“This should be done, rather than defending those who deliberately put up the flag upside down.
“Congratulations to the Johor government,” he wrote.
The remarks came after an industrial premises under the administration of the Kulai Municipal Council (MPKu) was temporarily ordered to close following the discovery of the incorrectly displayed national flag.
Johor Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor said the premises would remain closed until the company provides an explanation and completes the required undertaking.
He said the Jalur Gemilang was corrected immediately after the matter was discovered, while the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is conducting an investigation. The company’s director will also be called to provide an explanation.
The incident sparked public anger after a photograph of the upside-down Jalur Gemilang outside the premises went viral on social media during the National Month celebrations.
Mohd Jafni said MPKu’s action was based on the Licensing of Trades, Businesses and Industries By-Laws 2019, including By-Law 49(2) concerning the closure of premises and By-Law 45(1) relating to the display of flags.
He stressed that improper handling of the Jalur Gemilang should not be taken lightly, particularly during National Month, as the flag represents the country’s sovereignty and identity.
The Johor government has also reminded premises owners, companies and industrial operators to ensure the national flag is displayed correctly and with due respect, while stressing that the state will not compromise on matters involving the dignity of the Jalur Gemilang.
