The recent hoisting of a number of Chinese flags in North Maluku by a Chinese company violated the 1958 Law on State Symbols, in which suspected offenders may be subject to criminal prosecution.

The members of the Indonesian Military (TNI) had removed at least two Chinese flags, flown at the compound of nickel miner PT Wanatiara Persada on Obi Island in South Halmahera, North Maluku, and at a local dock during the ground breaking event of a smelter project built by the company on Friday, TNI spokesman Brig. Gen. Wuryanto said on Sunday.

“The incident violated the law,” he said.

According to the law, there are certain circumstances when a foreign country’s flag can be flown in Indonesia, which include commemorations of national days or when observing mourning days.

The law also stipulates that foreign flags are allowed to be hoisted at places where visiti...