Malaysia’s Good Vibes Festival organisers are threatening legal action against British rock band The 1975 after the band’s lead singer, Matty Healy, shared a kiss with bass player Ross MacDonald on stage during the festival’s opening night.
The incident occurred in Kuala Lumpur last month, following Healy’s vocal criticism of Malaysia’s anti-LGBTQ+ laws. The singer expressed his frustration, stating that he had “made a mistake” by agreeing to perform in a country that has such strict regulations on sexuality. During his speech, Healy declared, “If you push, I’m gonna push back. I’m not in the f**king mood.”
Homosexuality is considered a criminal offence in Malaysia and can lead to up to 20 years in prison. Additionally, there are no legal protections against anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination or hate crimes. The country has been internationally criticised for its LGBTQ+ rights record, including seizing Pride-themed watches and being named the second-worst country for trans rights.
After passionately speaking out against the laws and engaging in the onstage kiss with MacDonald, Healy announced to the crowd that he had been “banned from Kuala Lumpur,” and the band’s set was suddenly halted. The Malaysian Ministry of Communications and Digital subsequently cancelled the entire three-day event, leaving other scheduled artists, such as rapper The Kid Laroi and rock band The Strokes, unable to perform.
The festival’s organisers, Future Sound Asia (FSA), have sent a Letter of Claim to The 1975, stating their intent to pursue legal action if compensation is not provided. FSA has cited Healy’s “use of abusive language, equipment damage, and indecent stage behaviour” as factors that have impacted them financially. Among the allegations were Healy drinking on stage and destroying a festival-owned drone.
FSA’s statement emphasised the significant damage caused by the band’s actions, noting, “Healy’s actions intentionally contravened the agreement they had with FSA,” leading to the cancellation of the festival and resulting in “significant financial losses” that also affected local artists and businesses.
The situation has prompted diverse reactions within Malaysia and the international LGBTQ+ community. Some have condemned Healy’s actions, fearing a renewed crackdown on LGBTQ+ individuals in Malaysia. Rufus Sivaroshan, a queer Malaysian singer based in the U.S., went viral on TikTok, accusing Healy of a “white saviour complex” and emphasising the potential local repercussions of the incident.
Following the ban in Kuala Lumpur, The 1975 cancelled shows in Indonesia and Taiwan. The legal proceedings and public debate surrounding this incident continue to unfold, highlighting the complex intersection of art, activism, and cultural sensitivity.
