KUALA LUMPUR – The vocalist of local punk band Armpunk Sindicate was allegedly ambushed and beaten by a group of men shortly after performing at a concert in Johor Bahru – reportedly for refusing to kiss their hands.
Two video clips that went viral yesterday showed six to seven men stopping, dragging, and assaulting the band member, known as Zed, with one attacker seen using a metal rubbish bin as a weapon.
The incident is believed to have taken place near the toilet area at the Remember 69 gig, just as the vocalist was leaving the toilet.
Following the fiasco, Johor Baru South police confirmed that investigations have begun.
District police chief Raub Selamat said a report had been lodged and the case is being investigated under Section 148 of the Penal Code (rioting with weapons) and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act (misuse of network facilities), a local news outlet reported.
“We urge the victim or any witnesses to come forward to assist with the investigation,” Raub said.
Armpunk Sindicate, in a statement on social media, said Zed was attacked “without mercy” and accused the group of having more serious intentions.
“Seven bald cowards ganged up on one young artist,” they wrote.
“They used weapons. They showed no humanity. And all this, allegedly because Zed didn’t kiss their hands,” the band claimed.
Armpunk Sindicate also alleged that someone in the crowd threw what they assumed to be beer, but apparently smelled like urine, at them during their performance.
Zed, via the band’s Instagram, condemned the assault and called for safer creative spaces.
“Art is not a place for physical conflict. There is no space for bullies in art. Art is a safe space for us to connect and empathise with one another,” he wrote, adding a sarcastic thanks to bystanders who “watched and did nothing.”
Another band that performed during the incident, The Mister, called the attack inhumane and called out bullying and gangsterism in creative spaces.
“Subculture gigs must be safe spaces for artists and fans,” they said, after admitting that they were initially unaware of what occurred.
“There is no room for those who see violence as power. Bullying and gangsterism have no place in art.”
While some parties described the assault as a personal matter, Armpunk Sindicate and others insist it reflects a deeper problem in the scene – one that demands a collective stand against intimidation and violence. – May 12, 2025