PARLIAMENT | Deputy Communications and Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching has rejected opposition's call for the government to cancel the Coldplay concert, citing freedom of choice.
She said there are various ways for Malaysians to show their solidarity with the plight of Palestinians and they should not block those who like the British rock band from enjoying its concert tonight.
Taking a swipe at Perikatan Nasional MPs who pushed for cancellation of the event, Teo (above) pointed out that they (rock band members), too, had practised freedom of choice in showing support for Palestine.
"I believe that there are many ways for us to show our support and be in solidarity with Palestine.
"Like my fellow MPs who chose to boycott McDonald's and Starbucks (in support of Palestinians), but stopped short of boycotting Mercedes, iPhone, and Facebook.
"So, for those who have purchased Coldplay tickets and are going to its concert tonight, I wish them to enjoy the show.
"But for those who dislike Coldplay, those who cannot get tickets, do not 'kacau' (stop) others from going," she said during the winding-up speech for Budget 2024 at committee stage for the Communications and Digital Ministry.
The deputy minister was responding to Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man (PN-Kubang Kerian), who called on the government to ban the group that is known to be supportive of immoral activities such as LGBT.
In her response, Teo also pointed to Coldplay's concert in Jakarta last week. She said Indonesia, being a country with the largest number of Muslims in the world, has allowed the band to perform there.
"So, why can't Malaysia allow Coldplay to perform here?"
However, Tuan Ibrahim, who is PAS deputy president, disagreed with Teo's statement and urged her to retract it.
He said the government has a responsibility to ensure good moral values among the rakyat.
"You cannot just leave it to the rakyat to decide... The government has policy, rules, and the right to ensure positive values," Tuan Ibrahim said.
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