LETTER | Don’t disrespect flags

LETTER | Don’t stamp or stomp on any flag. It doesn’t represent a government. A flag symbolises the nation and its people.

A video has been in circulation, showing schoolchildren stomping upon the Israeli flag, encouraged by the teachers.

The children’s action was meant to reflect hatred and anger. Is this what we should foster among our schoolchildren?

The anger and fury displayed are of concern to thinking Malaysians. What is the reason for instilling anger among kids? Shouldn’t schools cultivate love among the children?

The Israeli flag that was stomped by young children does not encourage love and respect for the flag, love and respect for a nation and its people.

Besides, the disrespect shown for the flag does not harm the Israeli government in any way. That flag does not represent the Israeli government.

A flag is a symbol of a nation and it represents the people of the country. It doesn’t reflect the policies of a ruling government. It doesn’t sanctify the conduct of the government.

The flag is above the policies of an elected government. Like all governments, it is transient, never enjoying the relative permanence of the national flag.

You can condemn any government for its atrocious conduct and criticise the leaders of a government. That is legitimate and understandable.

However, don’t burn the flag or stomp on it. It is the symbol of the country and its people and deserves to be treated with respect.

Not all Israelis support their govt’s conduct

Plus, there are Israelis who don’t condone the actions of their government. There are those who condemn the extreme reaction and rebuttal.

The same goes for our Malaysian flag. Those against Malaysia should not defile our flag. They can condemn our government and its leaders - but never desecrate our flag.

We hope our schools won’t be turned into factories churning out hatred. Instead, teach them love. After all, “Omnia vincit amor!” In other words, “Love conquers all things!

Showing respect for the flag is good manners – let’s cultivate that instead of inculcating hatred.

Writer is a former president of Aliran.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.