IPOH: There is no harm in foreign tourists waving China flags during the International Guan Gong Cultural Festival, says Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
Saarani said the waving of foreign flags should only be an issue if it was done by Malaysians.
He said Malaysians also flew the Jalur Gemilang overseas during events.
"Is it a crime for Chinese nationals in Malaysia to fly their flag (during an event)? To me, it is not a problem or a crime because they are not Malaysians," he told Berita Harian.
"It would be a problem if Malaysian Chinese suddenly started waving China flags because it would appear as if they are glorifying a foreign flag."
Saarani said in any case, the matter, which is can politicised, should be left to the police.
Yesterday, the Guan Gong Cultural Association of Malaysia apologised for the waving of China flags during Thursday's festival.
Police have recorded statements from 17 Chinese nationals over the incident.
Perak police chief Datuk Azizi Mat Aris said the parade, which was part of the festival and saw people waving China flags, did not comply with the Peaceful Assembly.