Jalur Gemilang Symbolizes Unity for All Malaysians, Says Sultan of Selangor

SHAH ALAM, Aug 26 — The Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, reminded Malaysians that the Jalur Gemilang is a shared symbol of national unity belonging to all citizens, regardless of race, religion, language, or political background.

His Royal Highness emphasized that while Malaysians come from diverse backgrounds, the national flag serves as a constant reminder of their shared identity and citizenship.

“This flag belongs to all of us. We should be proud because it is a symbol of national unity,” Sultan Sharafuddin said in a statement today.

Sultan Sharafuddin previously consented to the Jalur Gemilang being flown at the Selangor Flagpole at Dataran Selangor from Aug 26 to Sept 17 to mark the National Day and Malaysia Day (HKHM) celebrations. A flag-hoisting ceremony was held at Dataran Selangor this morning to foster patriotism and unity among the public.

The Ruler highlighted that while flying thousands of flags across the country is simple, the greater responsibility lies in fostering genuine national cohesion. Sultan Sharafuddin called on leaders, politicians, and the public to focus on several key pillars:

• Leadership by Example: Urging politicians and public figures to practice moderation, tolerance, and compassion, and to refrain from exploiting racial, religious, or political differences to divide the people.
• Youth Education: Ensuring the younger generation is taught to respect individuals of different faiths, races, and cultural backgrounds.
• Invasive Inclusivity: Building a nation where citizens of every background feel genuinely respected, accepted, and proud to be Malaysian.

Sultan Sharafuddin noted that the Jalur Gemilang has never distinguished between ethnic groups—whether Malay, Chinese, Indian, Kadazan-Dusun, Iban, or others—nor between religious faiths.

“Independence is not merely to be celebrated, and the flag is not merely to be flown. The true value of both lies in our ability to uphold a country where its people can live together in peace, mutual respect and unity,” His Royal Highness said.