Respect country’s laws, Malaysian customs, The 1975 told

PETALING JAYA: Social media users have expressed dismay over English pop-rock band The 1975's behaviour on stage during the Good Vibes Festival on Friday (July 22), which also led to the event's cancellation.

A Twitter user said frontman Matty Healy's conduct in criticising the country's laws before proceeding to lock lips with the band's male guitarist, had spelled doom against the prospects of more international concerts in Malaysia.

"Wow, thanks a lot, The 1975. You have officially made it very difficult for Malaysia to have any more international concerts," Dini Azri said.

Several social media users also questioned the need for Healy to prove his point by kissing his guitarist.

"You can make a subtle statement but (Healy) wants to do it (through a display of) lip-locking (with his guitarist)," said @risenshinedunia.

@bunnyeunkook2 said The 1975 should not be disrespectful to Malaysian customs and laws.

"... if you are performing in Malaysia, please be mindful of our customs."

Another user, @shishiobae claimed The 1975 had been banned in some countries.

"The band was not invited by the government. Blame the organiser for not researching about the band, which has been banned in several countries."

@Rinitasen14 expressed regret over the incident, and especially, overtures to politicise the matter.

"Guys, we literally paid money to watch an international act perform, why ruin it with politics and all that. Music is supposed to build borders. So much for Good vibes!"

The Communications and Digital Ministry, through the Central Committee for the Application for Filming and Performance by Foreign Artistes (Puspal), has blacklisted The 1975 from performing in Malaysia.

In a statement, Puspal announced that the decision was due to the behaviour of the group, which challenged, belittled and disparaged local laws and violated the morals of Malaysians during their performance at the Good Vibes Festival in Sepang on Friday (July 21).