Upside-down flag in Pontian: MP calls for calm, assures case being handled

Pontian MP Ahmad Maslan has called for calm after the discovery of another “upside-down flag” incident, this time at a dental clinic in his constituency.

The deputy works minister said the mistake has been corrected, and relevant authorities are taking appropriate action.

Ahmad said the mistake was allegedly made by a staff member at a dental clinic who claimed it was unintentional.

“The dentist and the staff involved have both given their statements to the police. Several NGOs and individuals have also lodged police reports over the matter,” he said.

Ahmad added that he has spoken with the police and will meet the Pontian deputy police chief this morning at the district headquarters.

“I’ve also spoken to the district police chief, who is in Kedah due to a family emergency,” he said.

Yesterday, Harian Metro reported that a viral 33-second video showed the Jalur Gemilang being flown upside down on the second floor of a three-storey shop building, next to the Johor flag, which was correctly displayed.

Police officers and the public were also seen in front of the building.

Pontian deputy police chief Abd Hamid Abdul Rahaman reportedly confirmed that the case is being investigated under Section 5 of the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1963 and Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955.

Initial investigations showed that the incident at the clinic in Pusat Perdagangan Pontian on Wednesday was not intentional, he said.

‘Not a racial issue’

Ahmad also said efforts to coordinate with local authorities are ongoing.

“I’ve contacted the Pontian Municipal Council president, the council secretary, and the district officer to ensure this issue is properly addressed,” he added.

Ahmad stressed that the matter is being investigated thoroughly.

“This is not a racial issue. It is about awareness, sensitivity, and patriotism. Everyone, regardless of background, must exercise caution in matters of national symbolism.

“Authorities must also uphold the law at all times,” said the Umno supreme council member.

Last Thursday, over 100 protesters, including members of Umno and Bersatu youth wings, gathered in Kepala Batas, Penang, to "educate" a hardware store owner caught on video hanging a Jalur Gemilang upside down.

Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh, who led the rally, was subsequently investigated and later confirmed that he will be charged under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code at the Bukit Mertajam magistrate's court tomorrow.

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