GEORGE TOWN — For the past five years, Sapno Tukijo, a 59-year-old permanent resident originally from Riau, Sumatra, has turned his daily commute into a vibrant display of Malaysian patriotism. Every day from August 1 through Malaysia Day on September 16, his van is adorned with hundreds of mini Jalur Gemilang flags, capturing the attention and smiles of residents around town.

Sapno’s passion for this unique tradition began when he decided to decorate his vehicle with flags of various sizes, attaching them securely using a combination of glue and screws fixed onto rails on the van's roof and sides. The colorful procession has since become a moving symbol of national pride in George Town.

Having lived in Malaysia since 1987, Sapno is married to a Malaysian citizen, Penang native Norlia Mohamed Noor, 61, and the couple currently resides in Penang. Together, they have six children ranging in age from 15 to 30. Sapno balances several roles in his daily life: he is employed full time as a bilal (muezzin) at Masjid Kapitan Keling, works part time as a security guard, and offers home repair services across the city, leveraging his skills in plumbing, electrical work, and general maintenance.

“I live nearby and am skilled in plumbing, electrical work and various home repairs,” Sapno said. “I feel happy when people see my van and smile. The positive reactions I get as I drive through town make all the effort worthwhile.”

His gesture to display the national flag is a personal expression of pride and gratitude for living in Malaysia, a country he describes as harmonious and peaceful. The daily flag parade has drawn support from local residents who appreciate his dedication to fostering a sense of unity and patriotism during this important period of national celebration.

As the parade of flags continues leading up to Malaysia Day on September 16, Sapno’s van stands out as a colorful reminder of the diverse threads woven into the nation’s fabric and the shared spirit that unites its people.