Commentary: UK band’s controversial kiss achieved something few have in Malaysia
Others felt the pushback from conservative groups left Malaysia missing out on the potential “gold mine” that went to Singapore. Music fans had earlier lamented that Coldplay will play six shows in Singapore, compared to just one in Kuala Lumpur.
Food and retail vendors, including small-time entrepreneurs, were hurt by the festival cancellation, after investing money and time to boost revenue at the event. Local bands also lost an opportunity to perform on the big stage.
FODDER FOR STATE ELECTIONS
Ironically, Matty Healy achieved something few have been able to do in Malaysia, even if only momentarily: He brought the country together, across the political divide, in anger against his disrespectful and offensive behaviour.
So much so, that those on the conservative bench had to create a point of contention and chose to falsely accuse Mr Fahmi of blaming PAS for the cancellation of the Good Vibes Festival. The communications minister had long taken responsibility for the decision, and a police report has been filed against the false accusation.
This incident will undoubtedly be milked and manipulated in the build-up to the state elections, seen as a referendum not only on Mr Anwar’s performance but also on his multiracial vision for the country.
But entertainment news will likely be forgotten as voters’ attention turns back to more vital bread-and-butter issues. While large international events like the music festival boost the national economy, these don’t usually take place nor make an economic impact in the conservative states to begin with.
Source: CNA