Group: M'sian flag present at event, China nationals feted diplomacy

The Guan Gong Cultural Association has expressed regret at the continued misunderstanding about their recent event in Teluk Intan, Perak.

Among others, association president Soon Boon Hua denied persistent claims that the Malaysian flag was not featured in their procession.

On the contrary, he reiterated that both the Jalur Gemilang and Perak flags were at the head of the procession.

He also clarified that the China nationals waving their country’s flag at the event were celebrating the two countries’ diplomatic ties and chanted slogans like “long live Malaysia-China friendship” and “50 years of Malaysia-China friendship”.

China Press quoted Soon as saying last night that the representatives from China were highly enthusiastic, particularly given this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China.

It was reported that following recent visits by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to China, they felt a strong sense of familiarity with Malaysia.

Disappointing controversy

Soon further noted that the Guan Gong organising team had visited nine countries and regions, including Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, since June to promote Malaysian cultural tourism, making the controversy especially disappointing.

“I hope this issue is quickly resolved. Not only does it involve Malaysia, but it is also drawing attention from cultural tourism sectors in nine other countries and regions, including Hong Kong and Taiwan. The impact is significant and far-reaching,” he said.

The flag-waving incident had riled up right-wing Malay politicians from Umno and PAS, who alleged that it undermined Malaysian sovereignty.

Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh was among those who alleged there were no Malaysian flags at the event.

Most reactions appear to be based on a single viral video clip of the event in which only the China flags were seen.

Two Facebook posts by the Guan Gong association showing the Malaysian and Perak flags heading the procession, on the other hand, have only been shared 10 times.

Soon expressed appreciation for Perak Menteri Besar Saarani Mohamad’s response on the matter, emphasising the festival’s goal of cultural promotion and tourism, particularly in introducing Teluk Intan to international visitors.

Saarani had said that waving another country’s flag was a non-issue, but that regulations had to be followed.

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