Recently, musical legend Beyoncé announced her latest Renaissance World Tour starting in May and of course, Malaysia was not included in the list of destinations.
This once again angered her fans, known as the Bey Hive, despite the fact that she has already been banned from Malaysia for YEARS now. She was banned due to her provocative attire during her shows, which is a huge no-no for the Malaysian authorities.
Now, the Communications and Digital Minister, Fahmi Fadzil, is doubling down on ensuring international acts that plan on performing in Malaysia adhere to the local culture of conservativeness.
He wrote, “The government does not prevent any foreign artist who wants to perform in this country because the government has a view that the inclusion of concerts from abroad helps in the development of the creative industry as well as contributing to growth of the national economy.”
“However, it must be ensured that the inclusion of foreign artists respects the sensitivity of the community in Malaysia such as aspects of moral values and eastern customs, and public interest.”
Hence, as he explained, organisers as well as artists must comply to the conditions and guidelines set by the Application of Filming and Performance by Foreign Artistes (PUSPAL) committee.
The Minister’s statement comes after the Pasir Mas MP Tuan Ahmad Fadhli Bin Shaari (PAS) had requested his stance on:
- the government’s position regarding the organisation of concerts by foreign artists
- whether the government intends to establish guidelines so that the performances in this country is in line with the living standards of Malaysians
“Every concert event application received will also be made in review covering individual criminal records by the Special Branch, PDRM, a bad image record (controversial issues) that can cause public anxiety, review of preview concerts organised, the followers gained on social media (to evaluate the implications).”
“And to ensure the understanding of the artist who is not against the values and culture of the society in Malaysia, and the artists’ lifestyle practices including aspects of daily wear of the artist in question,” he added.
The PUSPAL Guidelines (GPP) can be accessed at portalpuspal@kkd.gov.my.
