The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) have confirmed that the viral event where China flags were paraded, was held without a permit.
Based on a report by Berita Harian, Perak Police Chief Datuk Azizi Mat Aris shared that the religious procession involving decorated vehicles that took place yesterday (October 24) from 8pm to 11:30pm, was attended by about 400 spectators.
“The police have called the organisers to record their statements and they will also be asked to present all foreign participants who are believed to be from China, to help with the investigation,” he said.
He also explained that his party had received a complaint in regards to this incident from a local man at 12:39am this morning (October 25).
Further investigations will be carried out under Section 9 (1) of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 for holding a parade without a permit and Section 3 (1) of the National Emblem Act 1949 for displaying the national emblem of a foreign country in a public place.
Datuk Azizi Mat Aris went on to advise those who want to organise rallies to send in permit applications to the police within 10 days before the date of the rally.
Additionally, he urged the public not to get involved in illegal gatherings that can cause disturbances and threaten public order. Those who commit this offence can be fined up to RM10,000 according to Section 9 (5) of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012, if convicted.
This comes after videos went viral on social media, showing a group of foreigners parading China flags during a celebration outside of Menara Condong, Teluk Intan, Perak.
The Persatuan Kebudayaan Guan Gong Malaysia has since apologised for the incident while clarifying that those who paraded the China flags were foreigners and NOT local participants for their World Guan Gong Celebration.
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