By Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, Member of the National Unity Advisory Council
KOTA KINABALU: I welcome the initiative to require students to wear the Jalur Gemilang badge on their school uniforms effective April 21 as a display of love for the nation.
This symbolic gesture serves as an important reminder of our national identity and unity.
However, true patriotism and loyalty to the nation must go beyond symbols—it must be nurtured through education, engagement, and real-life experiences that instil a deep and meaningful love for Malaysia.
Instilling Patriotism Through Education
One of the most effective ways to cultivate patriotism is through education that emphasises our history, values, and civic responsibilities.
Schools should revamp history lessons to make them more engaging, ensuring students appreciate the struggles and sacrifices from all races that shaped Malaysia.
Civic education must also be emphasised, teaching students about their role in building a united and harmonious society, as well as their responsibilities as future leaders.
Encouraging the use of Bahasa Malaysia while embracing Malaysia’s diverse cultures will further strengthen national identity.
Experiencing Patriotism First-Hand
To foster a deeper sense of national pride, students must have the opportunity to experience patriotism beyond the classroom.
Organising visits to historical sites, war memorials, and Parliament can help them connect with the nation’s past and governance.
Community involvement should also be encouraged—through volunteerism, community-building projects, and school-led initiatives that allow students to contribute to the well-being of their fellow Malaysians.
Additionally, programmes such as an ‘Adopt-a-Village’ initiative, where urban students visit rural communities, can help bridge gaps between different backgrounds and create a stronger sense of belonging to the nation.
Embedding Patriotism in Daily School Activities
Schools should not only encourage students to recite the Rukun Negara but also help them understand its meaning and how it applies to their daily lives.
Similarly, singing patriotic songs should go beyond routine practice—students should be engaged in discussions on the meaning behind our national anthem and other patriotic songs.
Schools can also invite veterans, activists, or community leaders to share their experiences in serving the country, inspiring students with real-life stories of dedication and sacrifice.
Empowering Students as Active Citizens
Patriotism also means taking responsibility for the future of the nation. Schools should encourage students to be involved in leadership programmes, debate clubs, and innovation challenges where they can discuss national issues and propose solutions.
By nurturing critical thinking and civic-mindedness, we empower the younger generation to become active participants in shaping Malaysia’s future.
Competitions such as the ‘My Malaysia’ projects, where students express their love for the country through art, essays, videos, or exhibitions, can further enhance their connection to the nation.
Leveraging Digital Platforms for Positive Patriotism
In today’s digital era, patriotism should also be embraced through technology and social media.
Schools should encourage students to create positive online content that promotes Malaysia’s achievements, cultural diversity, and unity.
Additionally, educating students on the dangers of fake news and divisive narratives will help them become responsible digital citizens who uphold national harmony.
A Collective Responsibility
While wearing the Jalur Gemilang badge is a good start, instilling true patriotism requires continuous effort from schools, educators, parents, and society as a whole.
Patriotism is not just about symbols—it is about values, actions, and a deep sense of love and responsibility for the nation.
If we nurture these qualities in our younger generation, Malaysia will have a future built on unity, integrity, and progress.
