Fly the Jalur Gemilang as a symbol of love for the country - Ahmad Shabery

He said it was incumbent upon Malaysians to fly the flag as a symbol of love for the country although this time the Merdeka celebration would be without the usual cheer and fireworks display as a mark of respect for the victims of the two air tragedies involving flights MH370 and MH17.

Like in previous years during the Merdeka month, the national flag should be flown the highest, the most in number and majestically possible this year, he added.

He said this was because the 'Jalur Gemilang' was the symbol of freedom, diverse races and religions, as well as prosperity, which should be appreciated by all quarters.

"Flying the national flag is an obligation we should fulfil to show our love for the country, only that this time, we cannot celebrate it with the usual cheer and fireworks.

"It is not possible for us to have the fireworks display at a time when the country is hit by tragedies and the 'Jalur Gemilang' is flown at half-mast," he said in his speech at the launch of the Merdeka Month and Fly the 'Jalur Gemilang' campaign in front of the Palace of Justice, here today.

The event, attended by about 5,000 people, was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, other cabinet ministers and Chief Secretary to the Government Datuk Seri Dr Ali Hamsa.

Shabery said despite the sadness in waiting for the arrival of the remains of the MH17 victims, it did not mean that all Malaysians were dispirited.

"At this brief and meaningful event, we try to show that despite the challenges that come our way, we do not give up, and we share the pain with families of the MH17 and MH370 victims," he added.