As a voluntary organisation, since its establishment, SJAM has depended solely on the generosity of the public, government grants and corporate sponsorships for its activities and operations. Flag Days are among the fund raising activities in which SJAM appeals to the public for funds to sustain its activities and services to the community.

The early St. John Flag Days in Malaya were organised by respective states. The first Flag Day can be traced back to 23 June 1951. The first national Flag Day was held from 15 August to 15 September 1960. In conjunction with St. John Day which falls on 24 June, Flag Day events are always held between the third week of June and the third week of July for a period of one month. During the month, members and officers are mobilised into groups in their uniforms and St. John T-shirts to appeal for donations from house to house, at shopping complexes and other public places. Members are entrusted with donation tins and those who donate get a small flag or a sticker.

St. John Flag Days are carried out with valid permits from the Royal Malaysian Police. Accounts of collections from Areas and States are audited and consolidated at the National level. The National Headquarters has always ensured that the funds donated by the public are put to good use. The collections are normally utilised for purchasing equipment, replenishing medical supplies and to cover expenses for Highway Duty during the festive seasons.

Besides Flag Days, St. John Ambulance at various levels organise fund raising events for specific purposes. Large scale fund raising events such as National Walkathons in 1988 and 1995 were initiated by the National Headquarters. Lottery draws were common in 1970s and 80s. States, Areas and Divisions also organise their own fund raising events such as movie premieres, charity dinners, jogathons, food fairs, sales of recyclable items,

garage sales, concerts and fashion shows.