TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The foreign ministry said Friday it has complained to Malaysia about the decision to remove Taiwan’s national flag from an immigration gate at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

The ministry issued a statement asking Malaysia to immediately correct the sign after a Taiwanese traveler noticed the national flag had been taped over, per CNA. It complained to Malaysia’s representative office in Taipei and the country’s foreign ministry, as the move seriously damaged the bilateral relationship. 

The ministry said it would continue to work with Malaysia to safeguard national dignity and convenient travel for Taiwanese. 

The Malaysian foreign ministry told CNA on Friday the change would not affect Taiwanese travelers. It said Taiwanese can still use the expedited immigration gate marked by the sign with the covered flag.

Since June, Malaysia has allowed travelers from 36 places including Taiwan to use automated immigration clearance when entering the country. Taiwan responded by giving incoming Malaysian travelers the same rights.