State tourism minister Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah described the action by members of the Sarawak for Sarawakians (S4S) group as “despicable”.

“The authorities should investigate and bring these bigots to book. Where is their loyalty?” he asked.

Karim said Sarawakians should be loyal to symbols of Malaysia including the flag and the Agong, as the state is part of the federation.

“Anyone who shows disrespect towards these should be reprimanded,” Karim said.

He said unhappiness over Putrajaya’s treatment towards Sabah and Sarawak should not be an excuse to show disloyalty.

Police have completed an investigation into the incident and recommended nine members of S4S be charged under the National Anthem Act.

In a response, S4S spokesman KC Tan, who was among the nine, said police have not got back to them since their statements were taken on Monday.

“If the police want us to be charged, then it’s up to them,” he told FMT.

Tan meanwhile said S4S is a people’s movement and has nothing to do with any political party.

He said its membership includes prominent Sarawak politicians from different political parties including DAP and PKR.

“Anyone can join S4S. As long as you’re a Sarawakian and want to fight for Sarawak’s rights, you can join us.”