The 1975 has been banned from performing in Malaysia after lead singer Matty Healy kissed a male bandmate on stage, which violated the country’s anti-LGBTQIA+ laws. Healy criticized Malaysia’s policies during a speech at the Good Vibes Festival and expressed his disagreement with being told who to have sex with in the country. The festival was subsequently canceled, and Healy responded to the ban with humor on his Instagram Stories.
The 1975 has been banned from performing in Malaysia after lead singer Matty Healy kissed a male bandmate onstage, speaking out against the country’s anti-LGBTQIA+ laws.
Title: The 1975 Faces Ban in Malaysia After Frontman’s Onstage Protest Kiss
In a powerful display of defiance against Malaysia’s strict anti-LGBTQIA+ laws, British pop rock band The 1975 finds itself banned from performing in the country. The ban was imposed following frontman Matty Healy’s decision to kiss his male bandmate, Ross Macdonald, during a performance at the Good Vibes Festival in Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia. Healy passionately addressed the crowd, delivering a speech that condemned the country’s policies and expressed his frustration at being restricted from choosing his romantic partners.
Healy acknowledged his mistake in not realizing the consequences beforehand, but he refused to back down. Speaking directly to his fans, he declared that canceling the concert would unfairly punish them for the actions of their government. The lead singer’s remarks were met with resounding support from the crowd, reinforcing his belief that his fans were progressive and accepting of diversity.
Nevertheless, Malaysia’s anti-LGBTQIA+ laws prevailed, and The 1975’s performance was canceled by the Ministry of Communications and Digital due to the “controversial conduct and remarks” made by Healy. The decision sparked a heated debate, with some Malaysians applauding the festival’s stance against what they viewed as disrespectful behavior, while others defended the band’s right to support their LGBTQ+ fans and community.
This incident is not the first time Healy has used his platform to protest anti-LGBTQIA+ policies. In 2019, he faced a similar situation in Dubai, where homosexuality is also illegal, but remained defiant. The band has consistently advocated for LGBTQ+ rights, with Healy’s actions serving as a demonstration of solidarity and support.
Despite his comfort in freely expressing affection towards men, Healy does not identify as gay. He has publicly spoken of his ability to recognize and appreciate the beauty of all genders without necessarily desiring sexual relationships.
As The 1975 faces the consequences of their onstage protest, the incident reignites the ongoing conversation about LGBTQ+ rights and the stifling effects of oppressive laws and policies that restrict individual freedom. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices artists sometimes make to amplify marginalized voices and fight for inclusivity and acceptance on a global scale.