KUALA LUMPUR: The controversy over an incident where Chinese flags were waved during the International Cultural Guan Gong celebration in Teluk Intan could have an impact on the tourism sector, says Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
"Malaysia is proud to be a multi-ethnic country. However, the overreaction of some parties to this issue contradicts the value of moderation and also risks creating the impression that Malaysia does not welcome foreign tourists to participate in local cultural events," said the Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister.
He said Malaysians have expressed concern because the people have always been free to hold any cultural events and celebrations.
Tiong said that there have been other events where flags of other countries were flown without inviting such harsh criticism.
He added that the unity government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim consistently emphasises the importance of respecting every culture to promote unity and harmony among all Malaysians.
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"The hoisting of Chinese flags has drawn attention and certain individuals seem to have taken advantage of it, exaggerating the matter and clouding the situation," said Tiong,
He added that the celebration in question was an international cultural event, with participants from several countries such as Vietnam, Thailand and China joining the parade.
"The participants from China may have waved their national flags as a sign of support and enthusiasm to celebrate the festival with others from various backgrounds, especially in light of the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations," he said.
"In neighbouring countries, similar festivals and cultural events are attended by international participants who wave their national flags as an expression of support," said Tiong.
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He also said that he supports the view of Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, who sees this issue as unnecessary.
"His point of view is correct when he states that raising the Chinese flag is not a crime nor a mistake. If the flag bearer is not Malaysian, it should not be a problem," said Tiong.
Tiong urged all parties not to prolong this issue.
"If we continue to complicate the situation, it will deter tourists from visiting Malaysia, to our own detriment," he said.
It was reported that Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh had urged the government and authorities to take legal action against the organisers of the event.
Guan Gong Cultural Association chairman Soon Boon Hua said the action was carried out by a group of participants from China who took part in the celebration parade.
