KUALA LUMPUR – Allowing pro-LGBTQ artists to perform in the country prior to the holy month of Ramadan is an insult, said PAS ulama chief Datuk Ahmad Yahaya.
He also called for Putrajaya to ban such artistes from ever performing in Malaysia, claiming that the LGBTQ ideology is firmly rejected here.
“We have repeatedly insisted that any Western artistes that pledge support to the LGBTQ movement should not have been allowed to perform here (in Malaysia).
“(In fact), the Central Agency for Application for Filming and Performance by Foreign Artists (Puspal) should implement strict rules to ensure no LGBTQ elements could seep into the country via these performances.
“Do we not learn from past mistakes? Are we becoming more and more desensitised, especially when the performance is scheduled when Muslims are preparing to usher in Ramadan?” he said in a statement today.
Ahmad added that the government should heed Penang Mufti Datuk Seri Wan Salim Wan Mohd Noor’s call for Malaysian Muslims to boycott Ed Sheeran’s performance this month.
Yesterday, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the Puspal committee, which includes the Islamic Development Department, would conduct thorough screening processes before approving any performance applications.
Sheeran will be performing at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium here as part of his +-=÷x Asia Tour on February 24,
Previously, British band The 1975 drew controversy when its frontman Matty Healy lambasted the government and its stance on LGBTQ during his performance at the Good Vibes Festival in July last year, before he shared a kiss with bandmate Ross MacDonald.
In response, the government introduced a “kill switch” for concert organisers to cut electricity and stop performances mid-show if the need arises.
Religious leaders had similarly called for the cancellation of British band Coldplay’s concert, which was held on November 22 last year, for being supporters of the Pride community. – February 1, 2024