Matty Healy, frontman of the English indie pop-rock band the 1975, recently found himself at the center of a controversy after using the band’s headline slot at Kuala Lumpur’s Good Vibes festival to speak out against Malaysia’s anti-LGBTQ+ laws. While his intentions might have been well-meaning, his actions have sparked accusations of “white saviourism” and “performative activism,” leaving the LGBTQ+ community in Malaysia vulnerable to potential repercussions. This article delves into the impact of Healy’s on-stage rant on Malaysia’s queer community and the country’s previously thriving music scene.
The Context:
In Malaysia, gay sex is illegal under a colonial-era law inherited from British rule, and the country is one of only 13 nations globally that explicitly criminalize the gender expression of trans individuals. This creates an environment where the LGBTQ+ community faces ongoing discrimination and harassment, leading to an underground, thriving queer space where they can find solace and support.
Matty Healy’s On-Stage Rant:
During the Good Vibes festival in Kuala Lumpur, Matty Healy publicly expressed regret for booking the show, citing his lack of awareness about Malaysia’s anti-LGBTQ+ laws. He went on to criticize the government’s stance, and in a symbolic act of defiance, kissed his bandmate Ross MacDonald. However, this well-intentioned act had unintended consequences, resulting in the festival’s cancellation by the government.
The Accusations:
Healy’s actions were met with condemnation from Malaysia’s LGBTQ+ community, who feared that his public defiance would provoke a crackdown on queer people from the government and police. Rufus Sivaroshan, a New York-based Malaysian music artist, went viral on TikTok, calling Healy a “f**king idiot” for his inconsiderate behavior. Sivaroshan pointed out that Healy’s lack of understanding about Malaysia’s cultural nuances and failure to consult with local queer communities demonstrated “white saviourism.”
Impact on Malaysia’s Queer Community:
For the LGBTQ+ community in Malaysia, the fallout from Healy’s on-stage rant is far-reaching. The previously thriving underground queer scene, where individuals could celebrate and explore their identities, now faces the risk of increased policing and raids. With prominent figures like Healy openly criticizing the government’s agenda, LGBTQ+ individuals in Malaysia may become more vulnerable to oppression and discrimination.
Impact on Malaysia’s Music Scene:
Beyond the LGBTQ+ community, Healy’s actions have potential ramifications for Malaysia’s music scene. The cancellation of the Good Vibes festival has not only disappointed fans and artists but also disrupted the flow of income for many performers who were set to participate. This could deter international acts from performing in Malaysia in the future, harming the country’s music industry.
Moving Forward:
As the dust settles, the Malaysian queer community is left to rebuild and stay strong amid uncertainty. They hope for the preservation of safe spaces and demand justice for artists who lost income due to the festival’s cancellation. Meanwhile, the international music community should learn from this incident, emphasizing the importance of understanding local cultures and engaging with communities before making public statements.
