IPOH: DAP vice-chairman Nga Kor Ming plans to take civil action against Perak Pas commissioner Razman Zakaria who allegedly defamed him over a viral parade incident involving the waving of a Chinese flag at Dataran Menara Condong in Teluk Intan last night.
Nga, who is local government development minister, said his aide had lodged a police report regarding Razman's statement at the Teluk Intan police station today.
"I have also instructed my lawyer to review the case and if it is found to have merit, 'see you in court' (addressing Razman).
"I believe the public can see for themselves the slanderous accusations thrown at me.
"Allegedly, I officiated the parade, but last night, I was in a meeting in Kuala Lumpur. How could I be in two places at once? Clearly, this is a lie.
"Razman claimed I organised the parade, but it was not organised by me at all," he said after visiting Pangsapuri Jalan Hospital here today.
Earlier, the media reported that Razman urged the authorities to investigate the viral incident of the Chinese flag being waved, claiming it occurred during the Teluk Intan Lantern Festival, which was attended by Nga and Pasir Bedamar assemblyman Woo Kah Leong on Sept 13.
However, it was later confirmed that the incident did not take place during the Lantern Festival but during the International Guan Gong Cultural Festival held last night.
Nga said neither he nor Woo were involved in organising the event, which violated permit conditions.
"However, the important thing is that I hope the organisers, namely the Guan Gong Cultural Association, are more sensitive, and I want foreign nationals to respect our country's laws.
"The sovereignty of the country must be respected to ensure such incidents do not recur," he added.
Earlier, Perak police chief Datuk Azizi Mat Aris said the organisers of the parade had been summoned to have their statements recorded.
He said the case was being investigated under the National Emblems Act 1949 for waving a foreign flag in a public place, and the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 for violating the permit conditions.
The religious-themed parade, which involved decorated vehicles, was reported to have taken place from 8pm to 11.30pm last night, with around 400 spectators in attendance.