PUTRAJAYA – International artists, including multi-Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, are still permitted to perform in Malaysia, said Communication Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
He said this in response to Penang Mufti Datuk Seri Wan Salim Wan Mohd Noor’s call to cancel Sheeran’s concert, as the British singer is a known supporter of the LGBTQ+ community.
Fahmi added that all agencies under the Central Agency for Application for Filming and Performance by Foreign Artistes (Puspal) – which includes the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) – will conduct thorough screening processes before approving applications to perform here.
“I welcome (Wan Salim’s) views. However, Jakim is one of the 16 agencies (within Puspal) involved in discussions to decide on any foreign artists’ applications,” he told reporters during a post-cabinet meeting press conference.
“Of course, careful screening procedures are made by all agencies. I request that this existing process (be respected). We take note of the views, but we have a process too.
“God willing, we will monitor if any action is necessary. For now, there have not been any changes to the approvals previously given.”
Earlier today, Wan Salim called for the concert’s axeing as Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim nation, and should not permit performances featuring artists supporting “sinful activities”.
He also urged all Malaysian Muslims to boycott the upcoming performance.
Sheeran will perform at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium for the Kuala Lumpur leg of his “+-=÷x Asia Tour”. Fellow British singer-songwriter Calum Scott is a guest performer.
Previously, religious leaders had similarly called for the cancellation of British band Coldplay’s concert, which was held on November 22 last year, for being supporters of the Pride community. – January 31, 2024