There’s a viral message currently circulating on social media and instant messaging platforms, which claims that the Palestinian flag was flown by a helicopter during the recent national Merdeka Day celebration in Putrajaya.
However, this is actually NOT TRUE, as the flag in question was not the Palestinian flag but instead, the flag of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM).
Bangi MP calls out the fake news
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Member of Parliament (MP) for Bangi, Syahredzan Johan debunked the viral message’s claim and stressed that the flag is indeed ATM’s rather than the Palestinian flag.
He also shared a screenshot of the viral message that’s circulating on WhatsApp, showcasing a photo of the helicopter flying the flag and ATM’s flag.
From the photo, the helicopter can be seen flying the flag with light blue, red and dark blue colours, as well as the Crest of the Armed Forces in its centre, which is what the ATM’s flag looks like.
The Bangi MP asserted,
“Received forwarded message in several WhatsApp groups alleging that the Palestinian flag was flown during Merdeka Day parade.
“NOT TRUE – that is NOT the Palestine flag! That is the ATM flag.”
Received forwarded message in several Whatsapp groups, kononnya flag of Palestine flown during Merdeka Day parade.
NOT TRUE – that is NOT the Palestine flag! That is the Angkatan Tentera Malaysia flag.
Please RT to stop the spread of fake news. pic.twitter.com/WmXWmLTPiB
— Syahredzan Johan (@syahredzan) September 2, 2024
Deputy Minister of Communications urged people to stop spreading lies
Besides that, Deputy Minister of Communications Teo Nie Ching also took to her official Facebook page to debunk the fake news.
In the post, she urged everyone to stop spreading lies and misinformation and focus on the true spirit of Merdeka Day, which is unity.
So, what do you guys think of the whole situation? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
Also read: M’sians Question Why a Palestine-Themed Banner Was Raised During ‘Negaraku’ at the FA Cup Finals
