Matty Healy, the 1975 frontman, went viral after making an appearance at the Good Vibes Festival in Malaysia. The singer took a moment from the band’s performance to protest the local anti-LGBTQ laws and kissed a male bandmate on stage.
Following the protest, organizers of the music festival released a statement announcing the event had been canceled. “We deeply regret to announce that the remaining schedule of Good Vibes Festival 2023, planned for today and tomorrow has been cancelled following the controversial conduct and remarks made by UK artist Matty Healy from the band The 1975,” read the statement from the festival.
Organizers were forced to cancel the festival under the directive of the Ministry of Communications and Digital. “The Ministry has underlined its unwavering stance against any parties that challenge, ridicule, or contravene Malaysian laws,” the statement continued.
The festival said that they would update attendees regarding a refund “as soon as possible.” Homosexuality is illegal in Malaysia and people can be punished with up to 20 years in prison.
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