An incident in Muar, Malaysia, on January 18 has sparked a nationwide debate about cultural exchanges and the legal implications of displaying foreign flags. The incident took place during a cultural procession organized by the Muar Tiong Hua Association to commemorate its 20th anniversary. The event featured a dragon puppet adorned with flags of China, which quickly drew criticism from netizens. The procession also included lion dance performances and participants waving flags from Vietnam and Thailand.
The display of China's flags led to public outcry, prompting a police investigation. However, the investigation concluded without any charges, as confirmed by Dr. Lim Teck Guan, president of the Muar Tiong Hua Association. The Guan Gong Cultural Association issued an apology, clarifying that the flags were shown by foreign delegates attending the event. This incident is not isolated, as similar occurrences have been reported in Tangkak and Perak in the past.
Dr. Lim Teck Guan emphasized that the association has no affiliations with China, attributing the display of Chinese flags to a misunderstanding.
“We do not promote pro-China feelings nor are we pro-China,” – Lim
The National Emblems (Control of Display) Act 1949 in Malaysia strictly prohibits the display of foreign flags, with violations punishable by up to six months' imprisonment or a fine of RM1,000. This law has come under scrutiny, as many argue it may be outdated in today's globalized world. Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing warned that overreactions to the waving of Chinese flags could harm Malaysia's tourism sector.
“The fear is that if we continue to harp on this, it could scare away tourists from visiting Malaysia, thus affecting the tourism industry,” – Tiong King Sing
PAS deputy president Ibrahim Man expressed concerns that the Malaysian government should not normalize such incidents by simply accepting apologies. Meanwhile, Syahredzan Johan highlighted that the act of displaying foreign flags should not be seen negatively but rather as an expression of friendship and unity.
“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
Ronnie Liu, advisor to the Guan Gong Cultural Association, defended the practice as customary for participants to bring national flags to international events to express their identity. This sentiment was echoed by Perak Chief Minister Saarani Mohamad, who saw no issue with foreign tourists waving flags at international festivals.
The police in Tangkak recently investigated a similar case involving a rocket replica decorated with China's flag at a local carnival. These incidents have reignited discussions on whether the National Emblems (Control of Display) Act remains relevant in modern Malaysia. Some advocates believe the law should be revised to reflect contemporary cultural dynamics.
Syahredzan further commented on the perceived double standards in enforcement regarding foreign flags, noting that police investigations generally follow public complaints.
“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
Public reactions continue to vary, with some like Razman Zakaria calling for national unity amidst these controversies.
“We ask those whose eyes are like (mine), skin like (mine), and blood like ours, we must unite,” – Razman Zakaria
Leave a Reply