KOTA KINABALU: The actions of a group of Malaysians believed to be from Sabah and Sarawak who insulted the Jalur Gemilang overseas risk tarnishing the reputation of Malaysians studying and working there.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Sabah and Sarawak) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud said disrespecting the national symbol of sovereignty did not reflect the civilised and courteous culture of Sabahans and Sarawakians.

Referring to the actions of a group calling itself Sabah Sarawak Keluar Malaysia (SSKM) Australia, he said freedom of speech did not mean people could act without facing consequences.

"The Madani government guarantees freedom of speech. However, freedom does not mean a person is exempt from the implications of their actions," he said in a statement today.