Kuala lumpur: The recent incident of an inverted Jalur Gemilang, proven to be unintentional, should not be blown out of proportion or create fear among the public about displaying the national flag, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. He assured that the police will act accordingly under the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1963 and the Minor Offences Act 1955 if a case is reported.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saifuddin explained, “We will determine whether the act was intentional to mock or undermine patriotism, or whether it was simply an error without ill intent.” He stressed that if investigations confirm it is deliberate, legal action will be taken. However, if it is found to be a genuine mistake, there is no need for undue alarm. Saifuddin addressed reporters at the Home Ministry’s Sua Mesra programme, emphasizing that displaying the Jalur Gemilang, especially during the national month, is a fundamental expression of patriotism and should be embraced by all Malaysians.

In a separate development, Saifuddin reaffirmed that police are prepared to reopen the investigation into the death of tahfiz student Wan Ahmad Faris Wan Abdul Rahman, who was allegedly murdered at a religious school in Kok Lanas, Kelantan, in December 2013. “We are prepared to review the case and resubmit it to the Attorney General’s Chambers. The police will determine any further action,” he stated. Saifuddin further added that, as with the case of Zara Qairina Mahathir, their guiding principle is to seek the truth and uphold justice in alignment with the law.