Matty Healy accused of "white saviour complex" from LGBT activists following Malaysian concert kiss
euronews.comBritish pop singer Matty Healy's protest stunt during a concert in Malaysia has incited anger from LGBTQ activists and allies in the country.Many have criticised the 1975 singer's profanity-laden tirade against the Malaysian government, along with his kiss with bandmate Ross MacDonald, as an example of "performative activism" that could exacerbate the challenges faced by LGBT individuals.Homosexuality remains criminalised in Malaysia, carrying a penalty of up to 20 years in prison.
The country is heavily influenced by conservative Islam, leading to restrictions on sexuality, alcohol, and other perceived threats to traditional values and "public decency" standards.While some locals appeared to appreciate the gesture, many argue that he disrupted an already delicate political environment for LGBT Malaysians, causing more harm than good.Lead singer Matty Healy sparked fury within the government by attacking the anti-gay legislation and kissing a male bandmate during their performance at the start of the Good Vibes Festival Healy told the Kuala Lumpur crowd it was “fucking ridiculous to tell people what they can do with that and that,” gesturing to his crotch.
He continued, “If you want to invite me here to do a show, you can fuck off. I’ll take your money, you can ban me, but I’ve done this before and it doesn’t feel good, and I’m fucked off.” Footage of the fiasco was posted on social media and sparked a backlash in the predominantly Muslim nation.The following day, authorities ordered the closure of the entire Good Vibes festival, which still had two more days to go, affecting other international acts scheduled to perform, including The Kid Laroi, The Strokes, and Ty Dolla $ign.
