KUALA LUMPUR – British rock band Coldplay wowed fans with their much-anticipated inaugural performance in Malaysia by expressing their gratitude to the government for allowing the concert to take place.
According to a video clip posted by X (formerly Twitter) user @qwertyuiopnavy, the Grammy-winning group’s lead vocalist and pianist Chris Martin delivered a brief message of thanks to not just fans, but also the federal administration.
“We welcome you all, thank you for standing in the rain, thank you for coming through traffic, thank you for waiting 27 years for us to come to your country, thank you to the government for letting us play here!” Martin said.
His comment was met with rousing cheers and applause from tens or thousands of attendees who packed the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
Fans had been queuing outside the stadium for their wristbands as early as 9am today despite being informed by the organisers that the ticketing counters would only begin operating from noon onwards.
Tickets to the show, ranging between RM228 and RM3,088, were sold out in three hours of being put up on sale online earlier this year.
Despite the eager anticipation, Coldplay’s performance here is held amidst strong criticisms from several quarters, including religious leaders – mainly from PAS – who have called for its cancellation, owing to concerns over morality and the ongoing Israeli occupation of Gaza.
Earlier today, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil confirmed that the “kill switch” is in effect for tonight’s concert.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also pointed out in Parliament that Coldplay is an act that supports the Palestinian cause. – November 22, 2023