PETALING JAYA: Authorities should prioritise crowd control and safety monitoring over imposing dress codes and maintaining respectful behaviour, say concertgoers.
Public relations executive Zaki Norman, 29, a K-pop fan from Petaling Jaya, said terms like “appropriate dressing” are too vague.
Assistant manager Natalie Chandran, 36, from Subang Jaya, shared similar views.
“I don’t see people dressing indecently at shows,” said the rock concert enthusiast.
For nutritionist Joanna Chan, 26, from Puchong, restrictions on audience attire risk “killing the vibe”.
“How do authorities define inappropriate dressing? People pay a lot to see their favourite artistes, and concerts are crowded and hot. Shorts and sleeveless outfits are normal,” she said.
All three fans stressed that crowd control should be the top priority.
“Since Kuala Lumpur aims to be a concert hub, it’s important that we can prove to everyone that we have proper crowd management. We don’t want a tragedy to happen before action is taken,” said Zaki.
Natalie added that on-site security should focus on preventing unruly behaviour such as brawls, while Chan highlighted the need for better ticket scanning systems to reduce congestion.
“Music is about expression and enjoyment,” said Natalie.
“Most people know their limits. It’s just the same as being anywhere in public.”
While concert organisers welcome the government’s updated guidelines for foreign performers, they are calling for clearer rules to avoid vague interpretations that could stifle creativity.
The guidelines, issued by the Central Agency for Application for Filming and Performance by Foreign Artistes, require promoters to ensure visiting acts respect local cultural sensitivities, including restrictions on attire, behaviour and the use of alcohol or drugs during shows.
Arts, Live Festival and Events Association (ALIFE) chairman Datuk Alan Foo said most established organisers would brief international artistes on Malaysian laws and values, but terms such as “appropriate behaviour” or “provocative dress” remain open to interpretation.
“What we need is clearer, standardised guidance that is enforceable, respectful and not overly vague.
“This way, both organisers and artistes can comply with confidence,” said Foo.
He added that while organisers are responsible for compliance, some measures, such as mandatory urine testing for drugs, are “not practical in a live event setting” due to privacy, contractual and logistical concerns.
“A better approach would be clear expectations, artiste briefings and active monitoring during the show,” he said.
ALIFE adviser Rizal Kamal agreed, noting that tackling substance abuse cannot fall solely on promoters.
“Organisers work closely with authorities to keep events safe, but drugs are a national issue often tied to gangs. Urine testing isn’t realistic as no authority is going to process thousands of cups of waste,” said the LOLAsia chief executive officer.
Both Foo and Rizal also raised concerns about the so-called “kill switch” rule that allows authorities to cut off a performance if artistes misbehave.
“To date, we’re not aware of any situation where the ‘kill switch’ had to be activated in Malaysia,” Foo said.
“Most shows proceed smoothly because of the work done behind the scenes. The priority should be prevention through clear communication, not disruption that may endanger crowds or hurt Malaysia’s international reputation.”
Beyond performance rules, both industry leaders voiced support for the government’s proposal to introduce anti-scalping laws, saying legislation should be backed by education, technical safeguards and cooperation.
“Scalping and bot activity undermine consumer trust, inflate prices and hurt genuine fans,” Foo said.
Rizal added that bots and hacking tools often scoop up tickets before real fans can buy them.
“The key is balance: protect consumers while allowing organisers the flexibility to sell tickets effectively,” he said.
