Controversy Over Chinese Flag at Johor Carnival Sparks Outrage
PETALING JAYA: A recent LED lights carnival in Bukit Gambir, Tangkak, has sparked controversy after a replica of a rocket with Chinese flags on its fins was displayed, prompting a call for stern action against the organisers.
Assemblyman Demands Action
Gambir assemblyman Sahrihan Jani, from the Barisan Nasional (BN) component party Umno, has demanded that the organisers be hauled to court if they are found to have violated guidelines set by the Tangkak district council and relevant authorities. In a Facebook post, he expressed his outrage over the incident, stating that an apology by the organisers would be insufficient to rectify the mistake.
Local Norms and Culture
Sahrihan emphasized that those intending to organise events in the future must be more mindful of local norms and culture and also avoid any form of provocation. He also announced that Umno had lodged a police report over the matter.
Investigation Underway
Tangkak police chief Roslan Talib confirmed receiving the report and said authorities were investigating the matter, as reported by Sinar Harian.
Previous Incidents
This is not the first time that controversy has been sparked by the inclusion of the Chinese flag in events. In October, a group of people were seen waving China’s national flag during a parade near the Leaning Tower in Teluk Intan in Perak. Guan Gong temple chairman Soon Boon Hua later apologised, saying the flags were displayed by Chinese nationals who attended the festival, and had not been planned by the organisers.
In the same month, two images on social media showing students at a private secondary school in Penang holding the Chinese flag went viral. It was later clarified that the students were part of a group of 33 from China studying at the Chun Ling Private Secondary School.
Conclusion
The recent incident highlights the importance of being sensitive to local norms and culture when organising events. It is crucial that organisers take steps to avoid any form of provocation and ensure that their events are respectful to all parties involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the incident that sparked controversy?
A: A replica of a rocket with Chinese flags on its fins was displayed at a recent LED lights carnival in Bukit Gambir, Tangkak. - Who is demanding action?
A: Gambir assemblyman Sahrihan Jani from Umno is demanding stern action against the organisers. - What is the current status of the investigation?
A: Tangkak police chief Roslan Talib has confirmed that authorities are investigating the matter. - Have there been similar incidents in the past?
A: Yes, in October, a group of people were seen waving China’s national flag during a parade in Perak, and images of students holding the Chinese flag at a private secondary school in Penang went viral.