Malaysia has called for concert organizers to implement a “kill switch” system following a controversial performance by the UK-based band The 1975 at the Good Vibes Festival in Kuala Lumpur. During the gig, the band’s frontman, Matty Healy, shared a kiss with bandmate Ross MacDonald on stage, prompting the group to walk off stage after around half an hour. In response, the Malaysian government has requested the introduction of a kill-switch system to prevent future “unwanted incidents” during concerts.
Deputy Communications and Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching confirmed that this move was a direct result of the incident involving The 1975. Ching explained, “The government has asked concert organizers to… cut off electricity supply if there is any unwanted incident [during a performance].” Additionally, the government plans to increase police presence and conduct more extensive background checks on foreign performers as part of the new guidelines. The aim is to foster greater respect for local culture among foreign artists performing in Malaysia.
This incident has highlighted the challenging environment for LGBTQ+ individuals in Malaysia, where homosexuality is illegal, and engaging in same-sex relationships can lead to fines or prison sentences of up to 20 years. The country currently lacks rights protection for LGBTQ+ people. In 2023, the Global Trans Rights Index ranked Malaysia as the second worst country globally for transgender rights, following only Guyana.
Notably, Matty Healy has previously challenged anti-LGBTQ+ laws in conservative nations. In a 2019 show in Dubai, where homosexuality can result in a 10-year prison sentence, he kissed a male fan in the audience and expressed a message of unity. Despite potential consequences, he later shared his gratitude for the experience on Twitter, emphasizing the importance of standing up for human rights.
In this context, The 1975’s controversial performance in Kuala Lumpur serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights in countries with repressive laws, even as artists like Matty Healy use their platform to advocate for change.