After controversy surrounding The 1975‘s halted set at Good Vibes Festival in Malaysia last weekend, local authorities are banning foreign artists from performing at upcoming events in Sepang, Malaysia.
The British band’s performance at Good Vibes Festival in Kuala Lumpur was curtailed after front man Matty Healy denounced Malaysia’s strict anti-LGBTQ laws and kissed a male bandmate on stage, ultimately leading to the cancellation of the entire festival.
The decision to forgo the rest of the event came from the country’s Ministry of Communications and Digital. The 1975 is now facing threats of a class action lawsuit from local artists and vendors who were financially impacted by the cancellation.
While international artists were paid prior to the event, local artists are paid on different terms, festival promoter Future Sound Asia told NME. Future Sound Asia is also “exploring legal options,” against the band.
Yesterday, Malaysian news outlet The Star reported that Sepang Municipal Council has ruled that only local artists will be allowed to perform in the district “for the time being.”
The decision comes as six international electronic music acts—including Ferry Corsten—are scheduled to perform at M4NTAP Festival in Sepang on August 5-6.
“The council retains the discretion to blacklist individuals, companies, events or any related entities,” said Datuk Abd Hamid Hussain, president of the council.
Hussain added that the decision can be overturned if organizers submit an appeal via the Central Agency for Application for Filming and Performance by Foreign Artists. The performing location will then need to be approved by the municipal council.
“Event organizers will need to adhere to additional requirements, including ensuring that artists’ conduct and behavior complies with the applicable laws at all times,” Hussain said. “Any violation of this will see the council taking necessary action, including the immediate cancellation of the event.”
Featured image from The 1975.
