What was meant to promote unity has instead been used to incite fear and division, said Yeoh Bee Yin regarding the Jalur Gemilang, following Dr Akmal Saleh’s rally in Penang.
The Puchong MP described Akmal’s Jalur Gemilang rally as a “cheap political stunt” and “a desperate cry for attention,” accusing him of attempting to stir hatred among Malaysians.
In a recent statement shared on her social media, Yeoh claimed that the UMNO Youth Chief only highlighted mistakes made by a specific community, while ignoring similar blunders committed by himself and others within “his ranks,” including the recent Malaysian flag error by UMNO Youth Terengganu.
Yeoh also shared an old photo of Akmal wearing a T-shirt featuring an inaccurate Jalur Gemilang, which had only 12 stripes.
“Akmal and the rally-goers who chanted ‘Merdeka’ yesterday should take a moment to reflect on the ideals expressed by Tunku Abdul Rahman during the Proclamation of Independence,” she wrote.
“The actions of Akmal Saleh reveal a desperate need for attention and a reliance on cheap tactics that only deepen divisions.”
Akmal has often emphasised that the Jalur Gemilang represents the dignity of Malaysians, and that he would do anything to protect the flag. On the night of August 15, Akmal visited the Dang Wangi Police Station in Kuala Lumpur after being summoned by PDRM to give a statement regarding the rally in Penang.
He reiterated that despite threats and pressure, he will not back down from speaking out about what he believes is wrong, for the sake of the country and his race.
“Akmal Saleh, grow up.”
Yeoh, however, argued that Akmal’s actions do not reflect patriotism, but rather childish behaviour that undermines everything he claims to stand for. She added that Akmal needs to change for the sake of his reputation.
“Akmal Saleh must grow up and stop these trivial antics immediately, or he will cement his reputation as a leader lacking real substance and the ability to genuinely connect with the youth.”
What do you think of Yeo’s take on this matter?
Also read: SJKC in Port Dickson Apologises for Displaying Upside-Down Jalur Gemilang for National Month
