SIBU: Love and patriotism for the country should come from the heart and not under the compulsion of the law, Assistant Minister of Youth Development Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said.
He said all premises should fly the Jalur Gemilang, but this should not be made so by the law.
The Communications and Multimedia Ministry would study the need to introduce a law to make it compulsory for every premises to fly the Jalur Gemilang throughout Merdeka month.
Its Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek had said such a law was necessary because many premises and buildings, especially those owned by private organisations, did not understand the need or importance of flying the Jalur Gemilang to show their love for the nation.
In response, Abdul Karim said the reflection of loyalty must come from the heart and not done because the law required it.
“Not necessary for that law please. Teach the citizens to love and be proud of the country,” added the Asajaya assemblyman.
A councillor of Maradong District Council, Felician Teo, said Ahmad Shabery’s heart was in the right place by advocating the flying of the national flag to be made compulsory.
