It does not matter if it is an Umno Baru-controlled state like Perak, a Pakatan-led state like Selangor, or an Umno Baru minister in Putrajaya. The leaders are men with simple minds who equate flag-flying with patriotism.

Men who will fine us RM1,000 for failing to fly the Malaysian flag outside our business premises. Men, like former communications and multimedia minister Ahmad Shabery Cheek, who in 2013 threatened cinema-goers with arrest if they failed to stand to attention for Negara Ku before the start of the film.

As a simple analogy, would tudungless women become more religious if they were forced to cover their heads? Does it mean that a woman who does not cover her hair is less devout? Is the Christian who wears a crucifix around her neck more pious than one who does not? Is the working mother less loving and capable than one who stays at home?