Use of different theme, logo for National Day celebration in PN states - an act that betrays principles of federalism

KUALA LUMPUR - The proposal by Perikatan Nasional (PN) Youth Leader Ahmad Fadhli Shaari on the use of different themes and logos for the National Day Celebration in the four PN-ruled states is seen as betraying the principles of federalism practised in the country.

A Fellow of the Institution of Malay Rulers Chair, Mujibu Abd Muis, said the move could strain the relationship between the federal and state governments concerned considering that the National Day celebration is a national event and is celebrated to commemorate the struggle for the country’s independence.

"Federalism refers to the spirit of cooperation and good relations between the federal and state governments, which normally, in matters involving national events, the states will participate and follow without prejudice.

"Using a different logo and theme is clearly politically motivated. It should not happen due to the need to respect the spirit of federalism," he said when contacted by Bernama today.

He said the National Day celebration should be used as a step to foster unity and unification and not be used for politics that will divide the people.

Meanwhile, a political analyst and Senior fellow of the National Council of Professors Dr Jeniri Amir said having different themes and logos for the four PN-ruled states with the federal government could be deemed as a disrespect to the Rukun Negara which promotes closer unity among the community.

He said by doing so, it could strain the relationship between the federal and state governments.

"When it comes to a country’s celebration, we have to be in tandem...otherwise, there’ll be a negative impact on the country,” he added.

According to reports, Ahmad Fadhli said Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, which are under the PN administration, were likely to use a different logo and theme, which is different from the logo and theme announced by the federal government, for the National Day celebration in the affected states.

The PN Youth's logo depicts the hibiscus flower with five petals which is the national flower, taking the colours found in the Jalur Gemilang with the theme of 'Teguh Muafakat Malaysia Sejahtera' (Strong Consensus for a Prosperous Malaysia). - BERNAMA