Proud to be Malaysian: Every floor of the Kampung Melayu flats and the access road is decorated with hundreds of Jalur Gemilang. — CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Row after row of Jalur Gemilang greet residents on every floor of the Kampung Melayu flats in Ayer Itam here.
The flats’ access roads, car park area, hawkers complex, surau and the corridors of each of the 16 floors are adorned with more than 3,000 flags.
Local businessman Datuk Seri Salim Abdul Rahman, 54, said he provided 3,000 Jalur Gemilang because he wanted the residents of one of the oldest modern-day high-rise flats in Penang to express their love for their country.
For 46-year-old resident Hazlan Yusoff, this was also a testament to the unity of the residents.
“I was born and raised here, and all residents are of various backgrounds and races.
“When our two blocks were built between the 1960s and 1970s, we were a motley mix of races.
“We are glad that Merdeka brings us closer as Malaysians regardless of creed,” said Hazlan.
The father of two daughters, aged five and eight years old, became inspired to buy many mini flags to add to the splash of colours, adding that many other residents also got caught up in the Jalur Gemilang trend.
Hazlan, who owns an eatery in the hawkers complex at Kampung Melayu, said he was thrilled by how the many flags created a bright and merry atmosphere.
“Not only are more customers here to admire the decorations, but I noticed more of them are in a brighter mood.
“People are mingling more and the flags remind them of our togetherness.
“Many even bring their children here after school to have their photos taken,” he said.
He said the Jalur Gemilang is a symbol of Malaysia’s pride, and people from all walks of life regardless of race or religion should fly the flag proudly on National Day.
“This is the spirit of the older generation, decorating their homes and hometowns in the 1980s and 1990s every August.
“All houses were decorated with Jalur Gemilang then and now I want to bring back that excitement,” he said.
On Aug 30, there will be a fireworks display at midnight in Kampung Melayu, followed by an array of activities to be held on Aug 31 to celebrate National Day.
