WITH politicians getting anxious over the White Flag movement, a former Bar Council president urged those hauled by the authorities to highlight their predicament on social media for help.
“One suggestion I can give to those facing intimidation from the authorities is to spread the word on social media. Many lawyers will come forward to assist you, on a pro bono basis.
“The media should also call up the authorities and query them on the matter,” K Ragunath told FocusM.
In recent weeks, an organic movement called #BenderaPutih trended on Twitter, urging those in need of food or other aid to raise white flag outside their homes.
It was aimed at alerting the public on their plea so that anyone could come forward and provide the necessary help.
However, several politicians have condemned the movement, especially from PAS, who alleged that the campaign was aimed at painting a negative light on the Government.
Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor even said those raising white flags in the state would not be entertained and urged those in need to use proper channels to seek help.
On July 1, Pahang police chief Datuk Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf denied threatening Kuantan residents with a RM50,000 fine for flying a white flag.
“The reports are inaccurate; the police did not issue a threat. What happened according to Kuantan district police chief (Mohamad Noor Yusof Ali) was that the individual concerned hung the flag from an electric pole.
“There are no objections from the police actually, just that perhaps our advice was not well taken. I have instructed that no action should be taken if white flags are flown at appropriate places.
“Of course, if it blocks traffic and so on, it becomes an offence; but for flying it without being an obstruction and so on, no objection,” Malaysiakini reported Ramli as saying.
On that note, Ragunath said that it was not an offence for one to raise a white flag as it was a cry for help from citizens.
He also said the campaign was mooted on humanitarian grounds, adding it has gained momentum among Malaysians of all races and religion – helping one another without conditions.
“Of course, you can’t place such flags on utility polls as it’s an offence. Nevertheless, there is nothing wrong with the campaign itself,” he remarked. – July 4, 2021.
Photo credit: Malaysiakini
