Jalur Gemilang: Beyond Fashion, A Symbol Of Patriotism

Malaysia’s National Day on Aug 31 may have passed, but opportunities to show love and pride for the country remain ever-present. Patriotism, after all, should not be confined to just one month.

Experts stress that the Jalur Gemilang should be flown with pride all year round—not only as a show of unity, but also to prevent misuse or disrespectful displays. Too often, the flag has been seen mounted incorrectly, worn as a costume, or even hung upside down—acts that point to carelessness and a lack of awareness among the public.

The Jalur Gemilang is more than red-and-white stripes with a blue field, crescent, and royal yellow star. Each colour and symbol carries meaning, collectively reflecting the dignity of a sovereign nation.

According to the Department of Information (JaPen), the flag must never be turned into clothing, headscarves, table covers, umbrellas, hats, face masks, or other items that may undermine respect for the national emblem. What is permissible, however, is the use of its basic colours and motifs—red, white, blue, and yellow—as inspiration in creative design.

RESPECT FLAG ETIQUETTE

Universiti Malaya sociopolitical analyst Prof Datuk Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi said that while Jalur Gemilang–inspired fashion can be seen as an expression of patriotism, it must be done respectfully and in accordance with proper decorum.

“Using the actual flag—the physical Jalur Gemilang—to make clothing or accessories is inappropriate and goes against both etiquette and official guidelines,” he told Bernama recently.

The young participants showcased outfits themed after the Jalur Gemilang in conjunction with National Day at the Independence Carnival of the Taman Pinggiran Senawang Neighbourhood Watch (KRT) in Seremban recently.

He advised the public to always refer to the guidelines issued by JaPen and other relevant agencies before attempting to create costumes or designs based on the national flag.

“Use creativity wisely. Take inspiration from the flag’s elements - its motifs, colours, and concepts - without misusing it. Improper use not only tarnishes the nation’s image but can also undermine the dignity of the people,” he said. 

To prevent further misuse, Awang Azman suggested that education on the ethics of flag usage be introduced in schools.

“School administrators and government agencies could work together to deliver this message through posters, infographics, short videos, and social media campaigns, making it easier for young people to understand,” he added.

RAISING PUBLIC AWARENESS

Echoing similar views, legal and constitutional expert Assoc Prof Datuk Dr Shamrahayu A. Aziz emphasised that education on the proper use of the Jalur Gemilang must be strengthened across all levels of society to ensure people understand the right way to display and incorporate the flag.

“Public awareness of proper usage and styling of the Jalur Gemilang needs to be improved. Although information on this matter is easily accessible through JaPen’s website, some people may simply ignore it,” she noted.

She suggested that the Ministry of Education take a proactive role by organising school programmes that explain flag etiquette. Awareness efforts, she added, should also extend to the private sector and individuals—especially those producing or selling Jalur Gemilang-inspired costumes and merchandise.

While there is no specific law directly prohibiting the flag from being used as fashion or decoration, Shamrahayu cautioned that this issue must not be taken lightly.

“The flag is a symbol of national identity and sovereignty, and it is the duty of every citizen to safeguard and honour it,” she said.

 SEEKING PERMISSION

Turning the Jalur Gemilang into fashion might look creative at first glance, but legal expert Dr Ainul Jaria Maidin warns it can easily cross into disrespect. Worse, once worn, such items are often discarded without thought—reducing the nation’s most sacred symbol to waste.

The former lecturer at the Ahmad Ibrahim Kulliyyah of Laws, International Islamic University Malaysia, described fashioning the flag into clothing or accessories as a misuse of the country’s official emblem.

The hoisting of the Jalur Gemilang, in particular, needs to be done at all times to prevent issues such as incorrect flag installation or careless display from recurring.

“Under the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1963 (Act 414), using the Jalur Gemilang without written permission is prohibited. Before embarking on any flag-based design, one must check the official Guidebook on National Emblems and the latest government circulars. The flag’s arrangement, colours, scale, and other elements must strictly follow approved specifications,” she explained.

For designs that involve cutting or altering the flag, Ainul Jaria said that written approval from JaPen is mandatory. Applications should include detailed sketches, material specifications, dimensions, and the intended purpose—whether commercial, educational, or for official events.

She noted that creating Jalur Gemilang-inspired fashion requires both creative discipline and legal compliance to truly honour the spirit of the national symbol. “It’s not just about design—it’s about preserving patriotism and sovereignty,” she said.

To deepen public understanding, Ainul Jaria called for a holistic approach combining formal education, digital campaigns, and community programmes supported by both government and private sectors. Strengthening History and Civics in schools, she added, would instil love for the nation and awareness of proper flag etiquette among the younger generation.

“Workshops for fashion designers and product makers could also be organised by JaPen, focusing on creative boundaries and printing guidelines permitted for Jalur Gemilang-based designs,” she suggested.

She reminded that misuse of the flag is not a trivial matter. Offenders could face action under Section 5 of Act 414, with penalties of up to RM20,000 in fines, three years’ imprisonment—or both.