I just finished many years working in Asia. Japan, China, Korea, Philippines and Thailand. You have to understand the Asian culture. You have mentioned the face saving aspect, some have mentioned the "It's China" aspect. Both are correct.
Jarnell may have been told to spread the scoring around to help the Chinese nationals look better. Sometimes over there you have to give up on your personal goals in order to provide support to their nationalistic pride. Also, you have to praise when criticism is totally warranted. A misplaced word or look, talking smack, or driving your team mates to excellence will be rewarded with rebuke and shaming of the person who behaves in such a way.
One must remember that Asian countries are very culturally driven, even to the point that prejudice is rampant and open. I do not consider this report as anything more than a culture clash.