28-11-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) The echoes of Coldplay’s recent concert in Kuala Lumpur have barely faded, but a new performance has taken center stage, triggering shock and condemnation across Malaysia. In the quiet town of Bachok, Kelantan, a concert featuring provocative Thai singers unfolded last Friday night (November 24), leaving Malaysians questioning the cultural appropriateness of such an event in the conservative region.
The footage of the performance swiftly circulated on social media platforms, catching the attention of local singer Baby Shima, who shared the video on her Facebook account. In her post, she highlighted the irony of the concert’s location, especially considering the history of show bans in the area.
“They used to ban my show, and recently, Coldplay’s show in KL. Apparently, there’s a sexier show going on there,” remarked Baby Shima, drawing attention to the apparent double standard.
The controversy didn’t stop there. Nor Azmiza Mamat, the head of Wanita PKR Kelantan, voiced her concerns about the concert’s non-compliance with the Entertainment Control Enactment of the state. Azmiza emphasized that while the Loy Kratong Festival, with which the concert was associated, may be permissible, the attire of the Thai singers on stage raised eyebrows and potentially violated regulations. She called upon the state government to thoroughly investigate the matter and address any breaches of the enactment.
“Unless the concert in Kelantan is not affected by the Entertainment Control Enactment of Kelantan,” Azmiza stated, hinting at the need for clarity on the event’s regulatory status.
An invitation shared by a Facebook user confirmed the location of the controversial concert in Bachok, Kelantan. The invitation explicitly welcomed all Buddhists in conjunction with the Loy Krathong Festival and Thod Krathin Samathi.
As the debate unfolds, the incident raises questions about the delicate balance between cultural celebrations and entertainment regulations in regions with conservative values. The clash between traditional festivities and modern entertainment choices continues to be a contentious issue, prompting calls for a closer examination of the boundaries set by local regulations.
