Concerts allowed in Kedah, but with conditions, says Sanusi

PETALING JAYA: The Kedah government has enforced new guidelines which need to be adhered to by concert organisers in the state, says Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor.

The Mentri Besar said the state wasn’t “anti-concert” as alleged by some quarters, as there were guidelines to ensure these events do not infringe on tradition and decency, Malay language daily Sinar Harian reported.

“If previously, concerts could be held with the permission of the district officer, now it must get the approval of the state exco,” Sinar Harian quoted Muhammad Sanusi as saying at a press conference in conjunction with Visit Kedah Year 2024 at Menara Kuala Lumpur on Friday (Aug 9).

Other conditions were organisers must choose the time and the appropriate artistes who are decently dressed.

“No sexy male and female artistes. This is not appropriate with the culture and tradition if they want to perform in Kedah,” he said.

In 2022, Kedah banned all open air concerts. In February this year, a hip hop concert in Alor Setar created controversy due to alleged unruly behaviour by a number of youth attendees.

The organisers later apologised, saying they did not receive approval from the state for the performance.