KUCHING: Sarawak, while having its own guideline regarding the organisation of acts or concerts, will not ‘lari (go beyond) with regulations set by the federal government.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the matter applies to any activities or programmes that are being held.
“In Sarawak, we often have our own decisions in regards to organising events. However, whatever the event is, the approaches will not go beyond what has been set by the federal government.
“Having said that, we will still monitor the situation. We will not be too tight or too strict. And we will not be too free also.
“It is not to say that we allow artistes to be naked on stage, there are still rules and regulations that need to be adhered to,” he said.
He said this in a press conference after officiating at the launch of the logo, theme, website and calendar of events in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of Sarawak independence at Wisma Bapa Malaysia here yesterday.
Abdul Karim was prompted for comments on whether there has been discussion between the state and federal governments pertaining to the new guidelines for foreign artistes in the country.
Meanwhile, it was reported that the guideline will prohibit foreign artistes from holding large concerts and live performances on the eve of Islamic public holidays and on Islamic festivals.
The guidelines, which will take effect next year, also cover the entire month of Ramadan, Awal Muharram, Maulidur Rasul, Israk Mikraj, Nisfu Sya’ban, Nuzul Quran, Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Aidiladha.
In addition, the other new rules prohibit male foreign artistes from dressing as women, and both male and female foreign acts from removing any clothing during performances.
