January 24, 2025 – A recent video shared by a TikTok user caused online ruckus after prestigious University Malaya allegedly played China’s national anthem at the 2025 Spring Festival Gala held on its campus, in conjunction to celebrate Chinese New Years.

The video captures attendees standing in unison as an announcement was made that China’s national anthem would be played first, followed by Malaysia’s “Negaraku.”

UM Responds

The issue has been addressed by University Malaya through a press statement last Tuesday, clarifying that the event was under the organization of the Chinese Embassy. It was also a result of partnership with several student associations that represents Chinese nationals.

“UM only served as a venue for the event that is taking place,” they stated.

According to the statement, UM explained that they had requested for Malaysia’s national anthem to be played too, upon hearing the organizer’s decision in playing the national anthem of China during the event.

Photos via TikTok video

This request aligns with the National Anthem Act of 1968. UM remains dedicated to promote patriotic values among students and the community.

Public Reacts

A range of reactions sparked among netizens on the TikTok platform as the video spread, causing the situation to spiral and escalate quickly.

One of the top comments read,

“Why weren’t the national anthem Negaraku played first? That should have been the first priority.”

Via Google

As others tried to ease the situation by explaining that the event was held to celebrate Chinese New Year, a TikTok user raised an interesting point: what if Malaysia’s national anthem had been played first, followed by another country’s anthem, in that country?

UM remained neutral and kept the situation under control as they continue to respects the country’s sovereignty by promoting patriotic sentiments in all its activities.

At the same time, the university supports the government’s internationalization policy by welcoming and celebrating its students.