IPOH: Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad has clarified his position regarding the actions of a group waving the Chinese flag at an event in Teluk Intan.
The Perak Mentri Besar stated that his earlier comments on the issue were misunderstood.
He affirmed that the state government's position is clear; no activity at any organisation or gathering is deemed offensive if it complies with existing rules and laws.
"It is an offence for any Malaysian citizen to fly a foreign flag as it is seen as glorifying other countries.
"However, it is not unusual for foreigners to display their national flag abroad, as seen in many gatherings, including sports events," Saarani explained in a statement on Saturday (Oct 26).
On Friday (Oct 25), Saarani had informed reporters there was no issue with individuals from China waving their national flag, comparing it to Malaysians flying the Jalur Gemilang overseas.
Nevertheless, Saarani noted that such acts are subject to the rules and laws of the country concerned.
He recommended during his press conference on Thursday (Oct 25) that the case should be investigated by the authorities, whether it includes foreigners or not.
"The police are investigating the case, and all parties must trust the authorities to investigate thoroughly and take firm action if there is a breach of existing rules or laws," he added.
On Thursday (Oct 25), Perak PAS Commissioner Razman Zakaria claimed that Perak Executive Council member Woo Kah Leong and Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming were present at the event after a video of the flag display went viral.
In the meantime, Persatuan Kebudayaan Guan Gong Chairman Soon Boon Hua clarified on its Facebook page that the flag-raising during the Guan Gong Festival on Thursday was unplanned.
He further stated that Chinese nationals, not Malaysians, raised the flags.
