JAKARTA (Bernama): Indonesia will not allow a planned concert by American gospel singer Israel Houghton and his group Israel & New Breed later this month, citing domestic security considerations and concerns that the event could be used to express political support for Israel.
Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra said the government decided after consultations with several relevant ministries and agencies over the planned ‘Heal the Whole World Knows Tour 2026’ concert, scheduled for Oct 24.
Yusril stressed that the decision was unrelated to Houghton’s religion or his name, but the government was concerned over his expressions of support for Israel, which he said were not in line with Indonesia’s foreign policy and its support for Palestinian independence.
"From several shows held in several places overseas, in between the music and songs, the artist made a statement, among others, saying ‘I stand with Israel’. This is quite a sensitive statement,” he told a press conference on Monday.
Yusril said the organisers had yet to apply for a permit to stage the concert in Jakarta and Houghton had not applied for a visa.
"Neither would be granted if applications were submitted,” he said, adding that domestic security was among the key considerations.
Yusril said Houghton, an eight-time Grammy Award winner, had visited Indonesia for two days as a tourist in January before leaving for Manila, noting that a tourist visa could not be used to perform at a concert.
He said Indonesia was also monitoring developments surrounding Houghton’s planned performances in Malaysia.
In Sabah, Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun said on Sept 28 that police would advise the state government against allowing Houghton’s concert to proceed for the time being if their views were sought, taking into account public reaction and community sensitivities.
Jauteh said two police reports had been lodged concerning the event, while organisers had yet to submit a formal application to the state government despite the dates, venues and ticket prices having already been advertised. -- BERNAMA
