PUTRAJAYA, April 16 — The Home Ministry has confirmed Sin Chew Daily has been issued a show-cause letter after being summoned over its publication of an incomplete version of the Jalur Gemilang.
In a statement today, the ministry said investigations began immediately under the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1963 and the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984.
The ministry stressed it will not compromise on matters involving national symbols and will take firm action against any party found to be negligent in publishing content that could threaten public order or security.
It said the omission of the crescent moon from the national flag, symbolising Islam as the religion of the federation, is a serious oversight.
“Such an act not only reflects a lack of professional diligence but also risks undermining harmony in our multiracial society,” the statement read.
The Home Ministry said action against the newspaper will be considered once investigations are complete.
Yesterday, Sin Chew Daily published an illustration of the Jalur Gemilang without the crescent moon on its front page, in conjunction with coverage of China President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Malaysia.
The incident drew criticism from various quarters, including His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, who said the newspaper’s management and editorial team should have been more vigilant and thoroughly reviewed the content before going to print.
— Bernama
