JEMPOL: Born on the day the country gained its independence on August 31 1957, Mohd Jumaro Marzuki, 60, beamed with pride as he displayed his collection of Jalur Gemilang, waving with pride at his house in Felda Raja Alias 4, here.
“I can’t contribute much to the country like other people, but this is how I express my affection to my country – by flying the Jalur Gemilang at my house. It may seem like a small thing to other people, but it is definitely meaningful to me,” he said.
“It has been a tradition for me to put up the Jalur Gemilang, not only during Merdeka celebration, but all the time, throughout the year. I am proud of the country I was born,” he said.
Mohd Jumaro said, ever since he moved to the settlement 30 years ago, he has never failed to put up and decorate his house with the Jalur Gemilang, which had contributed to his nickname ‘Jumaro Bendera’ among other residents at the settlement.
“It’s not hard to find my house, just mention my nickname or ask the villagers about ‘rumah bendera’ (flag house), you will be directed right up to my house in an instant,” he said.
True enough, flags of Malaysia were not only hanged outside his house, but the Jalur Gemilang was also used to decorate Mohd Jumaro's house - from curtains to sofa covers, all were decorated using the flag.
Mohd Jumaro said, his wife, Azizah Yakimin, 61, children and 16 grandchildren were all supportive of his interest in collecting the Jalur Gemilang.
“I have spent so much in buying Jalur Gemilang to decorate my house. This year alone, I had allocated about RM2,000 to buy the flags,” said the winner of the state level ‘Keceriaan Negaraku’ competition in 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2015.
This year, Mohd Jumaro will be representing the state in the national level competition organised by the Information Department.
“Participating in the competition will be a proud moment for me. It would be a bonus if I win, but the most important thing is to share with the rest of Malaysians out there that we must be proud of our country,” he said.
“Everyday without fail, it’s a routine for me to look and touch my flags. If I don’t do it, my day will not be complete,” he said.
“I hope my small effort will encourage other Malaysians to put up our Jalur Gemilang, to show the love we have for our beloved country,” he said.