The Workers’ Party MP Leon Pereira strongly believes that Singaporeans, regardless of their political ideals, should hold the national symbol to the highest standard, and hopes that more can be done towards galvanising awareness and respect for our nationhood amongst all citizens.
“I support the Bill in making meaningful necessary changes. I hope all stakeholders will take towards this law not only in government but also those in political parties, civil society groups, and citizens at large,” said Leon.
The Aljunied GRC MP also touches on a point that he feels is important to make, but some might find it an uncomfortable subject to talk about in the context of a conversation on the national symbols.
“I have come across the view that the display of national symbols are associated with support for the ruling party, the establishment, and the status quo. It is much less today than it did in the past,” explained Leon.
“In truth, I encountered this view less and less, and I can quite confidently say from many conversations with Singaporeans that displaying the flags is not associated with any political leaning.
My Workers’ Party colleagues and I are incredibly proud to give our flags on National Day as are members of this house from all parties. I have met many wonderful Singaporeans who are true patriots who belong to multiple political parties.”
Nominated Member of Parliament Mark Chay was also supportive of this Bill and recounted an incident when he was representing Singapore at a FINA World Cup in 2000. The former national swimmer performed well that year and made it to the finals.
“When I watched the replay on TV that night, I was disappointed to see that next to my name where the Singapore flag should have been was a grey box,” said Mark.
“The TV production crew did not have the Singapore flag. I felt very sad at that instance because I felt deprived of the ability to share my glory with Singapore.
So to me, this underscores the significance of our national flag and our national symbols. As a former national athlete, every call to the national is a moment of immense pride. It is a privilege which our athletes do not take lightly.”
The second reading of the National Symbols Bill was presented in Parliament on Tuesday by Low Yen Lin, Minister for Culture, Community, and Youth. It seeks to repeal and replace the Singapore Arms and Flag and National Anthem Act 1959 (SAFNA Act).
The SAFNA Act governs the use of the state crest, the national flag, and the national anthem. The new Bill which was passed on the same day saw the addition of three new national symbols; the national pledge, the national flower (Vanda Miss Joaquim), and the lion head symbol.
The National Symbols Bill also provides statutory recognition and protection to the presidential symbols which comprise the presidential standard, crest and seal.
Anyone who misuses the national symbols and the presidential symbols could face a fine of up to $30,000 or imprisonment of up to six months, or both. More egregious offences such as burning or desecration of the national flag would attract higher penalties.