THE federal government’s recent initiative to make it mandatory for students to wear the Jalur Gemilang badge on their school uniforms — ostensibly to instil patriotism and foster unity — is one of those ideas that looks good on paper but fails the practicality and impact test.
Yes, the intention behind the move may be noble. But let us not mistake symbolism for substance.
In fact, compelling students to wear the national flag on their uniforms risks trivialising the very values we hope to cultivate.
It may end up becoming just another rule to follow but devoid of meaning, and perhaps even resented by those who don’t understand why they’re required to wear it in the first place.
Let’s not forget that young people today are smart and observant. They are not easily convinced by empty gestures. They want honesty and real engagement.
If we truly want to build a sense of patriotism, we need to go beyond surface-level actions and ask ourselves:
What does it really take to help our young people love and care for their country?
It starts with education; but not the kind that only asks students to memorise dates, names, and events from textbooks. We need to go beyond that.
Schools should help students understand the real meaning behind our national symbols, the struggles and sacrifices that shaped Malaysia, and the strength that comes from our diversity.
They need to learn not just what happened, but why it matters, and how it connects to their lives today.
History lessons should be more than just a curriculum requirement. They should be taught in ways that make students feel proud of their roots and inspired by the struggles of those who came before them.
Why not tell them stories of our independence, our heroes — both celebrated and unsung — and how every generation has had a role to play in shaping Malaysia.
Only when students understand why they should love their country, patriotism will come naturally.
Patriotism shouldn’t be something we only talk about during Merdeka or National Day. It should be part of everyday life.
Schools can play a big role in this. They can create spaces where students are free to share what Malaysia means to them such as through art, writing, music, or even debates.
Let them express their thoughts in ways that are meaningful to them. We should encourage students to learn about local cultures, languages, and traditions. Organise trips to historical sites, cultural villages, or museums.
Let them see and feel the beauty and diversity of Malaysia for themselves. Real experiences like these leave lasting impressions and help build a deeper connection to the country.
Malaysia is blessed with a multicultural society. Why not celebrate that diversity more intentionally in schools?
Multicultural awareness programmes, cross-cultural exchange projects, and community engagement initiatives can go a long way in nurturing mutual respect and a deeper love for the nation. Let’s also not forget that there is no better way to develop a sense of belonging than through service. Patriotism grows when one contributes meaningfully to their community and sees the impact of their actions.
We should encourage volunteerism among students. Even simple acts of service create a ripple effect — they teach students that their country is not an abstract idea but a living, breathing community they are part of. It is through such acts of service, students learn important values like empathy, responsibility, and the importance of giving back to society.
When they take part in helping their communities, they begin to see themselves not just as bystanders, but as active contributors to the country’s progress.
Children and teenagers learn best by observing the adults around them. If we want them to grow up with a strong love for their country, we must show them what true patriotism looks like.
And it’s not about waving flags or singing patriotic songs once a year. It’s about showing respect, taking responsibility, and standing up for what is right and fair. That kind of everyday patriotism speaks louder than any symbol.
This includes how we talk about our country, how we treat each other, and how we respond to national issues. If students constantly see adults criticising the country without offering solutions, or breaking rules without facing consequences, what message are we really sending?
It’s important that we set the right example. Our politicians, too, should reflect on their role and avoid using race or religion to divide people for political gain.
Unity cannot grow in an environment filled with suspicion and fear. Our leaders, educators, and parents must show what it truly means to love Malaysia — not just with flags and slogans, but with integrity, fairness, and meaningful action. At the same time, we must remember that one reason many young people feel disconnected from their national identity is because they don’t feel heard.
They are often told what to do, what to wear and what to believe — but rarely are they asked what they think. When their voices are ignored, it becomes harder for them to feel a true sense of belonging or connection to the country.
Why not engage students in conversations about national issues? Set up forums or platforms where they can speak their minds, propose ideas, and feel valued as citizens-in-the-making. When students feel that their opinions matter and that they have a stake in shaping the future of the country, their sense of patriotism grows stronger.
Patriotism is not about blind allegiance. It is about believing in the potential of your country and wanting to make it better.
Perhaps the most powerful way to instil patriotism is to create a country where every child, regardless of race, religion, or background, feels they belong and have a fair shot at success.
When students feel discriminated against, sidelined, or left behind, it is hard to feel love for the nation. Inclusivity, equality, and justice are not optional — they are foundational if we are to build a truly patriotic society. If the goal is unity, then symbolic gestures like compulsory badges must be matched by structural policies that reflect fairness, meritocracy, and shared progress.
Wearing a badge doesn’t make someone patriotic — any more than wearing a lab coat makes someone a scientist. Let’s be honest with ourselves. We all know that patriotism is not about appearances.
It’s a deep emotional connection to one’s country, built through understanding, shared experiences, and a sense of pride that comes from genuine appreciation and belonging. It cannot be forced or created through something as simple as a compulsory badge on a school uniform.
So yes, let us fly the flag proudly. Let us wear it during national celebrations, teach our students to respect it, and understand its meaning.
But let us not delude ourselves into thinking that patriotism can be stitched onto a shirt sleeve.
True patriotism is lived, not worn.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at drnagrace@gmail.com.
