Artistes snubbing Malaysia? Then Muslims have succeeded, PAS man claims

KUALA LUMPUR — A Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) representative claimed on Sunday (Jan 14) that Malaysians should rejoice since international artistes are choosing to skip Malaysia by performing in neighbouring countries instead, since they are “spared” from “wild entertainment”.

Following a report claiming the decline in international musicians performing here, cleric Riduan Mohamad Nor said such news is a positive development for most Muslims in the country, as it allegedly serves as an indicator that they have succeeded in practising their religion.

“If the excuse that religious conservatism is the reason why such sponsorships are falling causing popular artistes failing to hold concerts in Malaysia, then that is a success for Muslims here,” said the PAS central committee member in HarakahDaily.

Mr Riduan claimed that the development is proof that concert sponsors have realised that Malaysia is not a free and open country.

“Malaysia is a country with a big reputation as an Islamic country. Although there are parties who feel such development is negative, but for the majority of Muslims in this country this is a positive development,” he claimed.

“Therefore with this development, those who plan to hold concerts in this country must respect the culture, religious practices and traditions of this country’s society.”

Islamist PAS and its Youth wing has a history of protesting against Western musicians, with thrash metal band Megadeth “thanking” them last year for not rallying against its show.

In 2016, the party had protested against American pop singer Selena Gomez due to her “sexiness”, even urging Muslims to perform prayers against her. THE MALAY MAIL ONLINE