Streamline approvals to bring in mega stars

THE introduction of the Concerts and Events in Malaysia Incentive is a positive move, but incentives alone will not bring world-class performers or international tourists to our shores.

In recent years, Malaysia has repeatedly lost major concerts due to confusing guidelines, inconsistent SOP and unpredictable approvals. High-profile cancellations, such as the MAMAMOO World Tour concert in 2023 (rejected due to permit issues) and the Good Vibes Festival 2024, or the proposal to compel concert-goers to undertake and pass urine tests as a condition for entry, send a negative signal not only to global promoters and local organisers in the entertainment industry but also would-be concert-goers. These issues create reputational damage and show that Malaysia, despite offering incentives, still lacks regulatory certainty.