The national flag may no longer be used by a couple exchanging marriage vows should the new amendments to the family law be approved by the parliament and subsequently gazetted.

The proposed amendments are aimed at harmonising two pieces of legislation; the one on persons and family, and the one governing matrimonial regimes, donations, and successions.

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The bill is set to undergo plenary parliamentary discussions on Monday, March 18 before proceeding to the relevant standing committee of the parliament for further scrutiny.

Among the issues raised for discussion in the amendments is one related to holding the national flag during marriage vows. In the draft, it is argued that the practice does not mean sticking together in marriage.

"Marriage vows between spouses is a vow of love and caring for each other. Holding the flag does not mean sticking to those vows as we witness divorce even before one year,” reads part of the amendments that are proposed.

The amendments propose that the Civil Registrar will be the only one holding onto the flag as a "representation of the authority who has observed all requirements for the celebration of that marriage.”