In a recent concert in Dallas, Texas, Matty Healy of The 1975 defended himself against criticism for kissing his bandmate onstage during a performance in Malaysia. The incident, which led to the cancellation of the rest of the event, sparked debates about LGBT rights, cultural sensitivity, and Western influence in Asia.
Healy started his defense by expressing that he had been instructed not to talk about the incident but decided to address it in a 10-minute speech. He clarified that the band had been invited to perform in Malaysia by organizers who were aware of their political views and the nature of their shows. Healy argued that the kiss was not a mere stunt or a provocation against the government, but rather an integral part of their stage performance that had been executed on multiple occasions before.
Critics of the band accused Healy of displaying a “white savior complex” and reinforcing Western patronizing attitudes toward Asia. Some LGBTQ+ Malaysians were concerned that the incident would contribute to further repression of the community in Malaysia, where homosexuality is punishable by imprisonment. However, Healy rejected these accusations, labeling the online backlash as “liberal outrage” and emphasizing the band’s consistency in their pro-LGBTQ+ stance.
The controversy surrounding the Malaysian kiss highlights a clash of values between the West and Asia. Healy argued that event organizers cannot invite Western performers and expect them to self-censor their views and performances. He reminded the Dallas crowd that inviting Western artists implied embracing their Western values. Healy drew a parallel between the criticism faced by the band and the strict abortion and trans laws in parts of the United States, suggesting that individuals would find it abhorrent if The 1975 complied with perspectives they disagree with.
This is not the first time that Healy has addressed online criticism during a concert. In a previous performance in Los Angeles, he apologized for actions that had harmed people. Healy has also faced backlash for mocking Asian accents and making inappropriate comments on a podcast. During the Dallas concert, he acknowledged his tendency to exaggerate himself as a rock star figure in various situations.
The response to Healy’s defense has been mixed. While some applaud his commitment to his beliefs and refusal to conform to societal norms, others argue that cultural sensitivity and respect for local laws should take precedence. The incident has ignited discussions about the role of artists in advocating for social change, the challenges of balancing free expression with cultural sensitivity, and the impact of Western influence on Asian societies.
Moving forward, it is crucial for artists and event organizers to navigate these cultural differences with sensitivity. Respect for local laws, values, and customs should be considered when planning performances and addressing sensitive topics. Artists should exercise caution in their actions and words to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes or exploiting cultural differences. Similarly, audiences should engage in constructive conversations about these issues rather than resorting to outrage or personal attacks. By fostering dialogue and understanding, we can navigate these cultural clashes and work towards a more inclusive and respectful global society.
