Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh has defended the ministry’s decision to introduce the Jalur Gemilang badge initiative for students, stating that it is aimed at fostering patriotism and national unity, and should not be dismissed as a mere symbolic gesture.

Responding to public criticism, Wong (above) acknowledged concerns raised by parents and various quarters, including additional financial burden, practicality, and safety risks.

However, he assured that the initiative...