PETALING JAYA: Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil has ordered for the immediate cancellation of the Good Vibes Festival, which was supposed to run till Sunday (July 23).
This comes following a controversial incident involving British band The 1975 during the concert that took place at the Sepang International Circuit last night.
ALSO READ: Fahmi raps The 1975 over kissing incident at Good Vibes Festival, organisers to explain
“I have ordered the IMMEDIATE CANCELLATION of the remainder of the festival which was supposed to take place today until tomorrow, July 23.
“I understand this decision will have implications for the audience who have purchased tickets. Accordingly, I have also urged the organisers to identify a compensation mechanism for ticket buyers.
ALSO READ: The 1975 kissing incident: Cops to quiz Good Vibes Festival organisers
“I want to stress, the position of the Unity Government is very clear. There is no compromise against any party that challenges, disparages and violates Malaysian laws,” he said in a tweet on Saturday (July 22).
The organisers had been summoned to explain the incident where Matty Healy, frontman of British band The 1975, slammed Malaysia’s LGBT laws and kissed his male bandmate Ross MacDonald on stage during the concert.
Fahmi quote-tweeted mStar’s report on the incident, stating that what occurred was disrespectful.
“This is a very disrespectful act. I have summoned the organisers to give an explanation, and I will contact the authorities for a full report,” said Fahmi via his official Twitter account in the early hours of Saturday (July 22) morning.
The organisers have also issued an official statement on its Instagram account.
“We deeply regret to announce that the remaining schedule of Good Vibes Festival 2023 (GVF2023), planned for today and tomorrow has been cancelled following the controversial conduct and remarks made by UK artist Matty Healy from the band The 1975.
“This decision adheres to the immediate cancellation directive issued at 1.20pm, 22 July 2023, by the Communications and Digital Ministry. The Ministry has underlined its unwavering stance against any parties that challenge, ridicule, or contravene Malaysian laws."
The organisers said they sincerely apologise to all their ticker holders, vendors, sponsors, and partners.
“We are aware of the time, energy, and efforts you have put into making this festival a success, and we value your steadfast support. We will update you on refund mechanics as soon as possible. We appreciate your understanding and continued support during this challenging time," it added.
