Aliran Media Statement
Superficial Patriotism
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How do we gauge the degree of patriotism? |
Aliran is totally in agreement with National Civics Bureau director-general Dr Nordin Kardi's recent observation that the flying of the national flag should not be used as a yardstick for patriotism.
His altruistic remarks are timely as some ruling coalition politicians and civil servants have insisted that Malaysians should fly the Jalur Gemilang to prove their patriotism. Now, this begs the question as to how to gauge the degree of patriotism. Is it measured by the size of the flag or its numbers?
Certainly, the flag as a national symbol has important political significance especially during auspicious and inspiring occasions such as Independence Day. It symbolises the country and represents our aspirations.
But it would be shallow to reduce patriotism to the mere display of the national flag. Some Malaysians have misunderstood the larger question of expressing loyalty to the country through the flag by foolishly making larger and larger flags. The size of the flag does not represent genuine patriotism. It may get into the book of records - that's about all!
And, in some places, one flag is no longer enough; it seems the degree of patriotism is also to be judged by how many flags a house or building displays. Cars with dozens of miniature flags planted all over can be seen whizzing down the streets, their drivers oblivious to the fact that their "works of art" are actually hazardous distractions.
What's more, wittingly or otherwise, pupils are being apparently duped into believing that the bigger the flags in schools, the more meaningful is the celebration of independence. While concentrating on externals, many schools have failed to inculcate the virtues and values of citizenship in pupils.
We wonder whether this patriotism campaign has got anything to do with building support for the government ahead of the general election.
As Dr. Nordin said, our contributions towards the nation's development are more indicative of patriotism than our flying the flag. Such contributions may take the form of, say, fighting for a less polluted Malaysia, battling against corruption, struggling for social justice, and ensuring a safer environment for our women.
True patriotism need not necessarily be worn on our sleeves or be truly reflected in foolish antics. Rather it should dwell in our hearts and be manifested in our compassion for the suffering and the marginalised and in worthwhile deeds to alleviate their plight. Ultimately, patriotism should spur us to work in solidarity to create a nation founded on justice and freedom with full respect for basic human rights.
Dr. Mustafa K. Anuar
Asst. Secretary
21 August 2003
This statement was sent to the local media including The Star, New Straits Times, and The Sun.
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