Malaysia Police Probe Dragon Puppet Display Featuring Chinese, Malaysian Flags

MUAR, Malaysia — Police in Malaysia have launched an investigation after a giant dragon puppet adorned with the flags of Malaysia and China sparked controversy during a cultural procession in Muar, Johor. The incident occurred on Saturday evening during an event organized by the Muar Tiong Hua Association to mark its 20th anniversary.

District police chief Raiz Mukhliz Azman Aziz confirmed that officers observed the dragon replica, which featured Malaysia’s Jalur Gemilang flag on its right side and China’s flag on the left. “Based on monitoring during the procession, it was found that the dragon replica was decorated with [the] Jalur Gemilang on the right side of its body and the left side featured the flag of China,” Aziz said in a statement reported by national newswire Bernama on Sunday.

The police are investigating potential violations of public order, assembly laws, and a ban on the display of national emblems of other countries. The case is being probed under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code, Section 6(2) of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012, and Section 3(1) of the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1949.

The dragon, claimed to be the longest in Malaysia, was paraded through several main streets in Muar as part of a lion dance performance. Videos and photos of the display circulated widely on social media, prompting the investigation. Organizers of the event and eyewitnesses have been summoned to provide statements.

The incident has reignited cultural tensions in Malaysia, where the Malay-Muslim majority has grown increasingly sensitive to issues of ethnic identity amid China’s rising economic and cultural influence. Malaysia is home to a significant Chinese minority, making up approximately 23% of its 34 million population.

The Muar Tiong Hua Association, which organized the event, has not yet commented on the controversy. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities examining whether the display violated any laws or regulations.