Political protests have significantly impacted the number of shows British band Coldplay will be performing in Malaysia, compared to the six shows scheduled for neighboring Singapore, according to the Arts, Live Festival and Events Association (Alife Malaysia).
Alife Malaysia expressed disappointment, stating that the protests had created an unfavorable impression among artists and industry professionals.
They emphasized that if Coldplay had performed six shows in Malaysia, it would have generated substantial economic benefits for local businesses, amounting to millions of ringgit.
In May, a prominent Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) central committee member, Nasrudin Hassan, raised concerns and called on the government to cancel the upcoming Coldplay concert in Kuala Lumpur, citing fears that it may propagate deviant beliefs.
Alife Malaysia highlighted that such protests against concerts negatively affect Malaysia’s reputation.
In a statement, Alife Malaysia congratulated Singapore on the success of Coldplay’s six-day sold-out shows.
“Congratulations on a six-day sellout for Coldplay in Singapore. It is a true testament and example of various government and private bodies working cohesively for economic benefit, job creation and tourism,” it said.
They expressed hope that Malaysia would adopt similar practices in the future.
Alife Malaysia also urged the government not to allow specific groups to dictate the preferences of most Malaysians.
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