LETTERS: I was recently asked by a Singapore publication to comment on the issue arising from the "tirade" of an international performer, who does not deserve to be named, on stage at a recent concert in Malaysia.
I felt that he should have been immediately "booted-out" and was pleased to know that he had been banned from performing in Malaysia.
The questions posed by the publication revolved around how Malaysia has been regarded as a country with "conservative values", which would in turn impact the nation's economy in terms of tourism and foreign direct investment (FDI). It also opined that such a move would require Malaysia to look into its brand positioning.
I felt the questions were shallow and alluding towards the conclusion that the move by the Malaysian government was wrong and that it would have repercussions on our economy.
Instead of replying to the questions posed, I chose to share my opinion on the matter, which I believe would not be carried by the Singapore publication.
In the spirit of wanting the public to realise how "skewed" certain media can be and how they can influence perception by amplifying the "loud minority" views, I wish to share my response.
First, we should address a pertinent point about the tendency by certain quarters to undermine "conservative values". Labelling people as either conservative or liberal is very subjective.
For example, an ultra-liberal group of people may label moderately liberal personalities as "conservative" and the "ultra-conservative" group may label moderate conservatives as "liberals". Hence, whichever set of values that the majority of a society adopts should not be judged by people external to the society, without a full understanding of what "makes" the society.
In the context of conservative values, there are many positive traits associated with it including, being dutiful, traditional values and social institutions, such as traditional family structures, gender roles, patriotism and religious traditions.
Although certain parties may label conservatives as being averse to innovation and creativity, these remain mere unsubstantiated claims. What is important is the practise of moderation in all facets of life, which ensures equity, accountability, reliability and fairness. Hence, a society that practises conservative values should not be labelled as bad or backward especially when the majority of the society, regardless of race and religion, have no qualms about it and continue to develop and prosper.
The crux of the matter lies in the values and principles that a society holds, which should not be questioned by those who have an entirely different set of values and principles.
Malaysia has strong Eastern values, which include adab and decorum in public, respect for elders, importance of family, community and communal harmony, a strong sense of culture, diligence and respect for authority. Certainly, these traits should not be seen as "flaws" and have never been a hindrance to the nation's development.
Malaysia is also a moderate nation and despite the label of "conservative values", especially by people who advocate the "woke culture", the country continues to attract many visitors and investors.
In the case mentioned, the personality concerned is known to be a tyrant, lacking in values and had attempted to impose his warped moralities in countries that have a clear set of laws and values. It is akin to one being invited to a person's home as a guest, and behaves in a rude manner, imposing on the host to accept their values, instead of respecting the norms and rules of the host.
Fortunately, his tirade has done Malaysia a favour. It has brought the country together, across the political divide, in anger against his disrespectful and offensive behaviour. Even foreigners and expatriates in Malaysia do not condone such appalling behaviour.
As far as investments and FDI are concerned, business decisions should be based on many factors, including business sense, stability, transparency and sound decisions.
Since the incident, other more well-known international artistes have performed in Malaysia, contrary to the misconception that the entertainment world had forsaken Malaysia. Our brand of hospitality and culture has not been tainted by this individual grappling with his sexuality, to the extent that he feels he must project it on stage.
Malaysia has its own set of values that we should uphold. We have a responsibility to preserve our values and principles in accordance with the views of Malaysians. We do not owe it to anyone to bend over backwards to accept their tyranny, bullying tactics and cheap publicity stunts. In this regard, I support the government's stand on this issue.
Let us not put emphasis on the few people who are destructive to our values. Instead, we should support the silent majority who uphold the Malaysian way of life and its inherent cherished values.
Every country is unique and should be able to project its own values, culture and hospitality. Visitors come to Malaysia to find warmth and genuine friendship – this is the Malaysia brand.
This whole episode does not deserve more headlines, airtime or media coverage. That will just give this personality what he has craved for - undeserving credence.
Mohd Said Bani CM Din
Subang Jaya, Selangor
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times