An incident on January 18 in Muar, Malaysia, involving a dragon puppet adorned with both Malaysian and Chinese flags, has sparked widespread outrage and debate. The dragon puppet, showcased during a cultural event, bore the Jalur Gemilang, Malaysia's national flag, on its right flank and the flags of China on its left. This display prompted a flurry of criticism online, leading to a police investigation after netizens urged the Malaysian king and Johor regent Tunku Iskandar to intervene.
Videos and images of the dragon puppet quickly went viral, drawing the attention of both local and international audiences. Many netizens expressed their dismay over the display, citing the National Emblems (Control of Display) Act, which prohibits the public exhibition of foreign national emblems in Malaysia. Violation of this Act can result in imprisonment for up to six months, a fine not exceeding RM1,000, or both. Despite this legal backdrop, the event's organizer, Muar Tiong Hua Association, attributed the presence of Chinese flags to foreign delegates participating in the event.
Dr. Lim Teck Guan, president of the Muar Tiong Hua Association, stated that there was "no intention to fuel racial hate or pro-China sentiments." He further clarified that the police investigation had concluded without any charges brought against the organizers. The incident was described as a misunderstanding, with the event intended to foster cultural exchange and friendship among nations.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing warned that overreacting to such displays could adversely affect Malaysia's tourism industry. He emphasized the importance of understanding cultural gestures in an international context. However, PAS deputy president Ibrahim Man insisted that the Malaysian government should not trivialize such incidents by merely accepting apologies.
The Guan Gong Cultural Association also issued an apology, reiterating that the flags were presented by foreign delegates as part of the cultural exchange. According to Perak Chief Minister Saarani Mohamad, there was no harm in foreign tourists waving their national flags at international festivals, suggesting that the gesture was benign.
This incident is not isolated; similar occurrences have been reported in Tangkak and Perak. Syahredzan, a notable figure commenting on the matter, explained that flag displays should be viewed in light of global camaraderie rather than negativity.
“We want to be part of the international community and thus, the display of foreign flags and emblems do not carry the same negative connotation as before and, instead, shows friendship and togetherness.” – Syahredzan
He further noted that prosecutions would send an unfavorable message if such acts stemmed from solidarity.
“There have not been prosecutions, which would have sent ‘the wrong message’, especially if the waving of flags was borne of friendship or solidarity.” – Syahredzan
Addressing concerns over perceived double standards in enforcement, Syahredzan pointed out that no reports had been filed regarding other foreign flags like those of Palestine.
“There is no double standard on the part of the authorities when it comes to flags. The only reason why the police do not investigate the flags of Palestine is because no one has lodged a police report,” – Syahredzan
However, he also warned against leveraging such incidents for personal or political gain.
“Unfortunately, certain quarters have decided to do so for their own agendas, including political parties.” – Syahredzan
In contrast, Razman Zakaria urged unity among Malaysians amidst these events.
“We ask those whose eyes are like (mine), skin like (mine), and blood like ours, we must unite,” – Razman Zakaria
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