No support for Palestine: Coldplay faces 'Kill Switch' threat ahead of Malaysia concert

The Malaysian government has said that the will use a 'Kill Switch' if the band tries to go off-script during the concert.

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Edited By: Mayank Kasyap
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New Delhi: As Coldplay prepares to rock Malaysia, the government reveals a 'kill switch' contingency plan to stop the concert if the British band goes off-script. Amidst opposition protests and concerns over Coldplay's LGBTQ support, the show hangs in the balance, with heightened security and a controversial measure in place.

Led by the opposition bloc, Muslim conservatives voice their disapproval of Coldplay's concert, citing the band's support for the LGBTQ community. Calls to cancel the show escalate, intertwining with protests against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

What is the 'Kill Switch' plan?

Communication and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil unveils the government's 'kill switch' plan, allowing organizers to cut power if Coldplay misbehaves. The move follows the controversy sparked by British band The 1975, emphasizing the government's commitment to avoiding a repeat of past incidents.

Security beefed up

Despite the opposition and concerns, Fahmi expresses confidence in Coldplay's Malaysia debut. Security measures are intensified for the anticipated 75,000 attendees at the stadium outside Kuala Lumpur, setting the stage for a night that could be monumental or cut short.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim justifies allowing the concert, highlighting Coldplay's support for Palestine. Anwar points out that the previous administration had greenlit the event and cites pro-Palestinian groups supporting the concert.

PAS Slams Coldplay's 'Hedonism Culture'

The Islamic party PAS criticizes Anwar's stance, asserting that Coldplay's influence goes beyond their support for Palestine, accusing them of promoting a "hedonism culture." This echoes PAS's pattern of protesting concerts conflicting with their interpretation of Muslim values.

Live Nation Malaysia issues a statement urging concert-goers to be mindful of local cultures and sensitivities. Police caution the public against provocation or inciting unrest at the Coldplay concert, part of the band's Music of the Spheres World Tour.

Global LGBTQ advocacy 

Coldplay's global stance on LGBTQ rights and environmental sustainability sparks controversy in various countries, with Indonesia witnessing protests before the band's recent concert. The clash of values becomes evident as Coldplay's activism faces resistance, mirroring the complexities of their international performances.