KUALA LUMPUR — There are more ways to nurture patriotism than requiring school children to wear a badge of the national flag, National Unity Advisory Council member Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said, listing down several measures for the government to consider.
While welcoming Putrajaya’s initiative to require students to wear the Jalur Gemilang badge on their school uniforms , Lee said it was only a symbolic reminder.
Nurturing true loyalty to the nation, however, must be done through other means and requires continuous effort from schools, educators, parents and society as a whole, the long-time activist said.
These measures include education, engagement and real-life experiences, he said in a statement reported by Bernama.
Education includes a revamp of how history is taught in schools to make the subject more engaging, ensuring that students appreciate the struggles and sacrifices made by all races in shaping Malaysia, he said.
Civic education also needs to be strengthened to help students understand their roles in nation-building and leadership.
“Civic education must be emphasised, teaching students about their role in building a united and harmonious society, as well as their responsibilities as future leaders.
“Encouraging the use of Bahasa Malaysia, while embracing Malaysia’s diverse cultures will further strengthen national identity,” he added.
Engagement and real-life experiences require exposing students to experiences of patriotism beyond the classroom, Lee also said.
This can include visits to historical sites, war memorials and Parliament as these experiences will help students connect with the nation’s past and its governance.
“Additionally, programmes like the ‘Adopt-a-Village’ initiative, where urban students visit rural communities can help bridge gaps between different backgrounds and create a stronger sense of belonging to the nation,” he said.
To embed patriotism in daily school activities, Lee suggested that schools invite veterans, activists or community leaders to share their experiences of serving the country, thus inspiring students with real-life stories of dedication and sacrifice.
Lee was commenting on the Education Ministry’s move to impose the badge requirement on students, starting April 21, as a move to instil patriotism and love for the country.
Each student is to receive two badges of the national flag free of charge for the 2025/2026 academic session.
However, the move has been panned by various education activists, with some pointing out its futility if some of the country’s politicians continue to engage is racial and religious rhetoric.
Others, like MCA’s Education Consultative Committee deputy chair, have raised questions about transparency in the tender process for the production of these badges, urging the Education Ministry to disclose the companies awarded these contracts as well as costs.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has dismissed such criticism, saying the badge is being given free of charge and to “just stick it on”, as other countries have similar initiatives.
The badge of the Jalur Gemilang is to be 5cm x 2cm in plastic and worn over the right chest. – March 30, 2025