April 22, 2025
KOTA TINGGI – Parents across Johor have welcomed the government’s initiative of distributing Jalur Gemilang badges to students, describing it as a meaningful effort to instil patriotism among the younger generation.
Civil servant Muhammad Nizar Abd Karim said children should be taught to love their country and take pride in the national flag from an early age.
“It is the perfect time to teach them about patriotism, national identity and pride. I don’t think any parent would oppose this.
“They could also learn the meaning behind each colour and symbol on the flag, and the history behind it. This is a good move by the government,” said the 47-year-old father.
Sharing the same view was father-of-three Yahya Samad, 54, who said it was important for children to recognise the national flag from a young age.
“We don’t want cases where our flag is wrongly drawn or displayed incorrectly, so this serves as early education,” he said.
Meanwhile, housewife Fadzliana Rozlan, 38, said she had decided to buy magnetic badges for her children as they were easier to attach to different school uniforms.
“I bought them on TikTok and Shopee after the Education Ministry announced the new regulation last month.
“I prefer magnetic badges as they do not damage the school uniforms. I worry that the current pinned badges will become rusty over time and leave holes in the fabric,” said the mother of two.
Year Five pupil Dezjquera Jaim, 11, said wearing the badge made her feel “important and responsible”.
“It’s like I’m representing Malaysia every time I put it on,” she said.
Year Six pupil Muhammad Fahim Mohd Taufiq, 12, said it was a nice way to show that he is proud to be Malaysian.
“It symbolises unity among Malaysians from different backgrounds. When we’re all wearing the same pin, it reminds us that despite our differences, we are all Malaysians. I think that’s wonderful,” he said.
Johor Education and Information Committee chairman Aznan Tamin said the State Education Department was working with schools to standardise the badge’s specifications, including size and design.
He added that school cooperatives would be tasked with stocking the badges, especially for students who misplaced theirs, or who join the school mid-year.
“While the badge was initially distributed for free, we are exploring ways to ensure it remains consistently available,” he said after officiating the state-level Jalur Gemilang Badging Ceremony at SK Bandar Penawar 2 yesterday.
He also addressed scepticism about the initiative’s long-term relevance, particularly beyond the Merdeka season.
“This is not just about commemorating Merdeka. It’s about nurturing a lasting love for the country. Patriotism should be practised all year round, not just in August,” he said.
“Parents should encourage their children to wear it proudly and handle it with care. It is a small emblem, but it carries great meaning,” he said.
More than 580,000 primary and secondary students in Johor have received the Jalur Gemilang badge since the initiative was announced by the Education Ministry on March 27, with each student receiving two badges for the 2025/2026 school session.
The ministry will implement the wearing of the Jalur Gemilang badge in educational institutions under its purview in stages, beginning April 21.