Two members of Massive Attack were issued with stern warnings and barred from re-entering Singapore after the British band ended their performance with a display of the Palestinian flag, police said.
Authorities said the band was investigated for “actions of support for a political cause and unfurling of a foreign flag” during their concert on Wednesday and will no longer be allowed to perform in Singapore.
“The police take a serious view of acts which could potentially harm the racial and religious harmony in Singapore and urge the public, including foreigners, to refrain from importing foreign politics as this can undermine our social cohesion and the rule of law,” the police and media authority said in a statement.
Singapore does not allow the public display of foreign national emblems without a permit or exemption, and the Palestinian flag is especially sensitive given the war in Gaza and Singapore’s Muslim community, which makes up about 15% of its population.
In 2023, the Home Affairs Ministry said: “The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict is an emotive issue. We would like to advise against the public display and wearing of articles in relation to the conflict, given the heightened sensitivities.”
“The peace and harmony between different races and religions in Singapore should not be taken for granted, and we must not let events happening externally affect this peace and harmony we have in Singapore.”
Massive Attack is known for its outspoken political stances, with videos during concerts highlighting conflicts from the Middle East, to Sudan, Gaza and Ukraine. — Reuters
