Conservatives in Malaysia are strongly criticizing Matty Healy, the frontman of British pop-rock band The 1975, for his recent appearance at a festival in Kuala Lumpur. During his performance, Healy criticized the country’s homophobic laws and kissed a male bandmate on stage. These actions have not only angered conservatives but have also caused unease among members of the LGBTQ+ community, who fear that it may worsen the hostilities they already face.
Drag performer Carmen Rose expressed disappointment, stating that Healy’s actions were self-serving and could potentially undermine the efforts of activists. Rose further argued that while Healy gets to leave the country without facing any consequences, the local LGBTQ+ community has to deal with the aftermath of his actions.
During his performance at the Good Vibes festival, Healy delivered a profanity-laden speech criticizing Malaysia’s homophobic laws. He also spat on the stage before stating that he was angry and that the audience, consisting of young and progressive individuals, didn’t deserve a set full of uplifting songs.
Following his speech, Healy kissed his bandmate while performing the song “I Like America & America Likes Me.” However, shortly after this incident, the band walked off stage, and Healy announced that they were now banned.
The festival organizers subsequently canceled the entire weekend event, and the government announced plans to tighten entry requirements for foreign artists performing in Malaysia.
Dhia Rezki Rohaizad, deputy president of Jejaka, a social support group for gay, bisexual, and queer men in Malaysia, criticized the government’s response to the situation. Rohaizad argued that Healy had a right to freedom of expression and emphasized that his speech was not how many activists in the country would have chosen to bring attention to the issue.
Activists have highlighted the increased intolerance towards LGBTQ+ individuals in Malaysia, citing incidents such as the raid on an LGBTQ+ Halloween party last year, during which 20 people were arrested. Mikhail Hanafi, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, expressed how the raid had instilled fear in individuals, especially during queer nightlife.
Despite concerns, Hanafi acknowledged the value of foreign performers speaking out but stressed the need for them to be mindful of how they address the issue and to engage with the local LGBTQ+ community beforehand.
Activists are particularly worried as Healy’s comments come just weeks before state elections, which often witness a rise in hate speech. Thilaga Sulathireh, founder of the group Justice for Sisters, emphasized the need for responsible expression within the bounds of local laws and cultural considerations.
The national human rights commission of Malaysia urged the responsible exercise of rights within local laws and cultural norms. However, Sulathireh believes that this statement highlights the lack of protection for the LGBTQ+ community in Malaysia, leading to increased concerns and insecurity.
Carmen Rose, feeling the pressure on the community, is unable to advertise performances in Kuala Lumpur. She emphasized the importance of foreign artists understanding the local context and the potential harm they might unintentionally cause.
