Each time an international act is set to perform in Malaysia, voices of discontent will emerge, claiming that these gigs serve only to erode the values and character of Malaysians.
Most recent are calls to ban the world’s biggest all-girl group Blackpink, from performing in the nation’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, on March 4.
While these calls do not reflect the views of the majority, the Arts, Live Festivals and Events Association (ALIFE) is up in arms over the latest uproar, and has urged the government to step in.
This comes after an independent preacher, who had on his social media platform, called on the people to protest Blackpink’s concert at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
“ALIFE is calling on the Digital Communications Minister (Fahmi Fadzil) to stop this extremist culture that will erode and derail the unity government’s efforts in rebuilding Malaysia as an inclusive and harmonious country, respected by the international community and its peers in the region,” said its chairman, Paramanathan Rajagopal.
“Allowing for extremist views and calls to ban international events is damaging to the country, as news like this will be picked up all over the world, and will give the wrong impression of Malaysia.”
Paramanathan applauded Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing’s recent “bold statement” that called out on extremist culture, which he said, could harm the nation and threaten the harmony of Malaysia’s multi-ethnic, multi-cultural society.
Tiong was responding to Permatang Pauh MP, Pas’ Muhammad Fawwaz Muhammad Jan’s recent demands, that a beer promotion event at a mall in Penang, be “covered up”.
“ALIFE, a leading non-governmental organisation which facilitates the live events industry, has been advocating good practices, and working closely with all government agencies, so that events in Malaysia adhere to our strict code of conduct, local cultures, and religious sensitivities.
“It’s time we educate those that have a negative perception of our industry, that events in Malaysia are carried out very differently compared to those in other countries, and that the artists are required to conduct themselves professionally, and in strict adherence to our regulations,” he added.
The live entertainment industry was crippled over the past two years following the various lockdowns in Malaysia to contain the spread of the coronavirus.
However, many big names have made Malaysia their destination since late last year, with more performances lined up this year.
Tickets for these events have been mostly sold out, despite the gloomy economy and a weak ringgit. The ‘soft’ ringgit has resulted in higher ticket prices.
However, industry players say that the ripple economic effects from staging these events would cascade onto other sectors, such as the F&B, hotel, transport, and retail industries, and provide them with a much-needed financial break.
