[Updated] Fahmi Fadzil Orders Immediate Cancellation Of Good Vibes Festival 2023
Fahmi Fadzil said there’ll be no compromise for anyone who challenges the law.
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Fahmi Fadzil, the Minister of Communications and Digital, has announced the immediate cancellation of the rest of the Good Vibes Festival 2023, organised by Future Sound Asia. The decision comes in response to the controversial performance by British rock band “The 1975” in Sepang last night.
The Minister reiterated the government’s firm stance on not compromising with any party that challenges, degrades, or violates Malaysian law. He emphasised the importance of respecting local manners and cultural values, stating that creative industries and freedom of speech are supported by the government, but should not touch on sensitivities within society.
The cancellation of the festival events, which were supposed to take place yesterday through tomorrow, 23rd July, may have implications for ticket buyers. As such, Fahmi Fadzil has urged the organisers to establish a compensation mechanism for those who have purchased tickets.
The Good Vibes Festival has issued an official statement, and TRP is currently awaiting further information.
READ MORE: The Implications Of Future Concert Performances In Malaysia After Matty Healy’s Stunt At GVF2023
Official statement from @goodvibesfest pic.twitter.com/VZStyVXTHc
— Good Vibes Festival (@GoodVibesFest) July 22, 2023
Ben Law, the Founder & Director of Future Sound Asia (FSA), expressed deep regret over the situation, stating, “Over the past ten years, we have built Good Vibes Festival to be a uniquely Malaysian platform for enjoyable music experiences. This festival is not a transferable franchise, but a brand built from the ground up on Malaysian soil, cultivated by unyielding dedication, resilience, and financial risk. Now, this decade-long labour of love faces an unprecedented threat due to the actions of a single individual. This is a very challenging time for us.”
The cancellation of GVF has not only dealt a significant financial blow to FSA but also raised concerns about potential repercussions that may extend beyond their organisation.
FSA is concerned that this incident may undermine the confidence of music promoters and various stakeholders in the live entertainment industry across the nation, thereby threatening the stability of the burgeoning live arts scene.
FSA has always upheld a policy that requires all artists performing at their festivals to respect and adhere to Malaysian laws and guidelines. Despite receiving assurances from The 1975 management team prior to the festival, Matty Healy did not honour these commitments, leading to the immediate suspension of the show following the incident.
The artist’s unprofessional behaviour and open defiance of Malaysian laws and regulations have deeply disturbed FSA. Instead of delivering the high-quality show anticipated by his Malaysian fans, Healy chose to use his performance as a platform to express personal views, leaving his fans disappointed and deprived of a memorable music experience.
FSA is now grappling with the aftermath of actions taken by an individual who is not present to be held accountable and must deal with the implications affecting fans, industry players, and the nation at large.
Moving forward, FSA says they are determined to learn from this experience and take necessary steps to reinforce communication with artists and their management teams.
Furthermore, they will emphasise the importance of professionalism and adherence to local regulations to ensure that future events are conducted with even greater care and diligence.
Details regarding refund mechanisms will be provided to all affected parties as soon as possible.
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