New dress, conduct rules for concerts in Malaysia

Guidelines spell out what is expected of audiences and foreign performers

- 

Concertgoers in Malaysia have been advised to dress appropriately, avoid disruptive behaviour and respect the nation’s cultural and religious sensitivities.

These rules are not meant to dampen the concert experience but to ensure that such events can be enjoyed safely and in line with local values, said Communications Ministry deputy secretary-general for strategic communications and the creative industry Nik Kamaruzaman Nik Husin.

He added that concerts must not become scenes of disorder or obscenity, and prohibited items, such as weapons, alcohol, drugs and political or religious signs, will not be allowed in the venues.

The ministry’s Unit for Application for Foreign Filming and Performance by Foreign Artistes (Puspal) has recently updated its guidelines that also extend to audiences as part of the duties of organisers.