Photo by Matt Jelonek/WireImage
Coldplay could be the first victims of a new "kill switch" function introduced to live concerts by the Malaysian government. The switch gives organizers the option to cut off electricity and end a live show instantly should an artist do anything controversial or offensive. It was introduced after The 1975's appearance at the Good Vibes festival in Kuala Lumpur in July which ended early after the band's Matty Healy protested the government's anti-LGBTQ laws by kissing bandmate Ross MacDonald.
This evening (November 22) Coldplay will headline the Bukit Jalil stadium as part of their Music of the Spheres tour with the switch will be available for the first time. Coldplay might not have a reputation as hell-raisers but concern about their appearance dates back to May. A member of the religious group Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) shared images of the band's Chris Martin holding a rainbow flag and accused him of promoting “a culture of hedonism and perversion."
Malaysian communications minister Fahmi Fadzil confirmed that promoters Live Nation had agreed to the potential use of the "kill switch," which would stop the band's instruments, sound systems, and other equipment from working. Speaking earlier this week, however, Fahmi said he does not foresee any issues with Coldplay's performance.
Live Nation Malaysia has also urged those attending the concert to refrain from displaying any "political attributes" during the show.
The Guardian reports on widespread criticism of Coldplay's current tour of Asia. Last week conservative Muslim demonstrators clashed with police outside Gelora Bung Karno stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia before the band performed at the venue. A banner reportedly read: “Reject, cancel and disband Coldplay concerts.” Indonesian politicians, meanwhile, also spoke out about the band and their support of LGBTQ+ rights.
