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Music Festival in Malaysia Canceled After The 1975 Lead Singer Slams Anti-LGBTQ Laws

todayJuly 22, 2023 3

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A music festival in Malaysia has been canceled after the lead singer of British band The 1975, Matty Healy, made a strong statement against the country’s anti-LGBTQ laws and kissed a bandmate on stage. The incident took place at the Good Vibes Festival in Kuala Lumpur on Friday night, prompting the Ministry of Communications to cancel the rest of the three-day event.

Controversial On-Stage Speech

In an expletive-laden speech during the band’s headline performance, Matty Healy expressed his frustration towards the country’s laws, stating, “I do not see the point of inviting The 1975 to a country and then telling us who we can have sex with. Unfortunately, you don’t get a set of loads of uplifting songs because I’m f***ing furious.” Healy acknowledged the audience as young, progressive individuals and added, “I’m sure a lot of you are gay and progressive.”

Healy mentioned that the band considered canceling the show but decided against it to avoid disappointing their fans. The tension escalated when bassist Ross MacDonald walked up to Healy and kissed him on stage, further intensifying the statement made against the anti-LGBTQ laws.

Immediate Cancellation of the Festival

Following the incident, the Good Vibes Festival released a statement announcing the cancellation of the remaining schedule. The festival expressed regret over the conduct and remarks made by Matty Healy, aligning with the directive issued by the Ministry of Communications and Digital. The Ministry emphasized its strong stance against any actions that challenge or ridicule Malaysian laws.

Communications Minister Fahmi emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to supporting the development of creative industries and freedom of expression. However, he also highlighted the importance of respecting sensitivities within the local culture and traditions.

Online Controversy and LGBTQ Community Response

Matty Healy’s actions sparked controversy online, with some fans expressing concern that it may result in a further crackdown on artistic expression and make it more challenging for music artists to perform in Malaysia in the future.

Members of Malaysia‘s LGBTQ community also criticized Healy’s actions, with some calling it “performative” and warning of the potential for increased discrimination.

Past Controversies

This is not the first time The 1975 lead singer has faced controversy. Earlier this year, Healy drew criticism for appearing to do a Nazi salute on stage during a song that critiques Kanye West. In 2019, he defiantly kissed a male fan during a concert in Dubai, where anti-LGBTQ laws are also in place.

Key Take Away

– The Good Vibes Festival in Malaysia was canceled after The 1975 lead singer Matty Healy criticized the country’s anti-LGBTQ laws.
– Healy made a speech expressing his frustration, stating that he disagrees with being told who he can have sex with in the country.
– The festival was immediately canceled following the controversial conduct and remarks made by Healy.
– The Communications Minister emphasized the importance of respecting community sensitivities and traditions.
– Healy’s actions sparked both online controversy and criticism from Malaysia’s LGBTQ community.
– This is not the first time Healy has faced controversy for his actions during performances.

According to a report by Cnn.com

Credit: cnn.com

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Written by: Soft FM Radio Staff

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