Inspector-general of police Ismail Omar has ordered Gabungan Janji, the organiser of the Janji Demokrasi rally last Thursday, to come forward and assist in investigations over several controversial events on that night.

According to Utusan Malaysia , Ismail issued a warning and wanted the rally organisers to voluntarily give their cooperation before sterner action is taken.

Ismail said the act of unfurling a ‘new flag’ dubbed Sang Saka Malaya during the Merdeka eve celebrations at Dataran Merdeka was an attempt to go against the national sovereignty and laws, divide national unity, and could undermine public order. 

NONE “The same goes to their act of stepping on the photographs of the prime minister and his wife. It was not only uncivilised and disrespectful of the society’s morals, but also malicious by inciting the people to hate national leaders.

“This act is seen as leading to threaten the nation’s stability. Hence we will not hesitate to summon the rally organisers to give statements on how they can allow such incident to happen,” he was quoted as saying.

The top cop said the rally participants have deliberately abused the approval given by the government to hold a rally on that night.

“The police regret that this group behaved as if they purposely wanted to challenge the authorities. We gave the permission but they abused it.

“The act of this group (in raising a ‘new flag’) is also seen as an attempt to undermine the federal constitution. The police will investigate this incident and act according to laws and rules,” he added.

NONE Utusan Malaysia today dedicated more than two full pages to highlight criticisms against these acts.

The Umno-owned daily also published a commentary entitled ‘Don’t let them get away’ by its news editor Zulkiflee Bakar, urging the authorities to take stern action against those who behaved uncouthly that night.

It claimed that the ‘new flag’ was designed by PKR Youth deputy publicity chief Najwan Halimi.

Related stories

Anwar defends Sang Saka Malaya flag-flying duo

CM: So, how about Perkasa burning my photo?

PKR Youth distances itself from 'new' flag designer

Replacing the national flag: Chasing fantasy demons?

Selangor Merdeka row: State sec best person to answer

Utusan: 'New flag' designed by PKR Youth leader

Ikatan chief backs police action against flag duo

Young Journalists Club blasts insolent behaviour

Since when is flying a flag a crime?

Thank you Pakatan, we'll take it from here