KUALA LUMPUR – Concert promoter Live Nation Malaysia has disabled the comment section of its Instagram post announcing Bruno Mars’ upcoming show in Kuala Lumpur this September.
The action comes in response to a surge of complaints from netizens accusing the popstar of being pro-Zionist, and calling for a boycott of his concert here.
The backlash was sparked by comments Mars made during his concert in Tel Aviv recently, which many perceived as being supportive of Israel, further fueling the controversy.
The combination of Mars’ actions during his Tel Aviv performance – his choice to sing in Hebrew and his statements expressing fondness for Israel have sparked widespread debate and condemnation on social media.
Many netizens voiced disappointment and anger, accusing Mars of aligning himself with Israeli policies that are viewed as oppressive by supporters of Palestinian rights.
The critics argue that his remarks showed insensitivity to Israel’s ongoing aggressions on Palestine, leading to heightened tension among his fanbase, particularly in pro-Palestine countries, including Malaysia.
Despite the controversy, tickets for the Kuala Lumpur concert on September 17 are still slated to go on sale as planned.
Live Nation members will have exclusive access to presale tickets starting on June 27, with the general on-sale following on June 28.
However, organisers have yet to issue a formal response to the boycott calls or the specific allegations against Bruno Mars.
Bruno Mars, whose real name is Peter Gene Hernandez, is an American singer-songwriter, well known for his retro showmanship, coming back to Kuala Lumpur after six years.
His last concert in Kuala Lumpur was also for his 24K Magic World Tour in May 2018. – June 25, 2024