Ever since COVID-19 cases spiralled out of control, life has become a living nightmare for many, especially those from the hardcore poor community.
In order to unite Malaysians in weathering the storm, a “white flag” campaign was launched as an avenue for those who needed daily necessities to request from neighbours without any fear of humiliation or embarrassment.
However, Bachok MP Nik Abduh was unimpressed by the initiative and told Malaysians to do something more practical such as praying to God for help instead of flying white flags.
“Raise your hands in prayer to God. That is the flag of strength and optimism in the test of life. Don’t admit defeat by teaching others how to raise a white flag.”
Netizens were outraged by Nik Abduh’s statement and slammed him for being indifferent towards the suffering of Malaysians.
▼“He’s scared to open Parliament, but he’s brave enough to question the people’s effort in helping others.”
▼“The white flags raised aren’t a sign of defeat, but rather a symbol of unity among the people.”
One netizen even delivered a sharp clapback towards Nik Abduh’s statement.
▼”Okay. But make sure you don’t ask for collections with Milo tins after this!”
In a surprising twist, Minister of Housing and Local GovernmentDatuk Zuraida Kamaruddin showed her support for the campaign on Twitter, reflecting a glaring contrast from her political ally.
“I am with this #BenderaPutih campaign to identify those who need help. There’s no need to plead or to feel embarrassed. Just fly the flag!”
Admin | Saya bersama dalam kempen #benderaputih ini bagi mengenal pasti mereka yang memerlukan bantuan. Tak perlu merayu, tak perlu malu. Kibar saja bendera.?️#KempenBenderaPutih#PEMULIH#ActionBeyondPolitics pic.twitter.com/L3UP1rTYYf
— Zuraida Kamaruddin (@zuraida_my) June 29, 2021
However, her show of support quickly descended into public mockery, with activist Fahmi Reza accusing her of hijacking a good cause for publicity.
“Shameless. Loves hijacking the people’s initiative to make it seem like she cares. #TakTahuMalu.”
Some also felt that politicians had no right to show solidarity with the campaign as they had failed to control the pandemic.
I think the gov/MPs are not in the position to promote this initiative.
— Syed Mohammad Hafiz (@syedmh_) June 29, 2021
This #BenderaPutih was introduced because of the #KerajaanGagal. You guys hv failed the rakyat.
New cases are still high, people losing their jobs, suicides, but the highest contributor are still operating. https://t.co/FCCtKzjtKy
Sources: Utusan, Facebook/ Nik Mohamad Abduh, Cover image by Bernama via The Star
Editor: Raymond Chen
Proofreader: Sarah Yeoh
