ORGANISERS of live entertainment events who faced difficulty in holding their bashes are instead welcome to host them in Penang, says a Penang executive councillor here.
This follows the remark by Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim that concerts in Kuala Lumpur would be reviewed to see if they are suitable for the conservative society there, said Yeoh Soon Hin.
Yeoh said that Shahidan may have his reasons but if organisers are uncomfortable with such an arrangement, they are welcome to do it in Penang.
Yeoh, who oversees the portfolios of tourism, culture, arts, heritage and creative economy, said in a statement that Penang would warmly welcome events organisers such as those promoting concerts and musical variety shows here.
"As a melting pot of east and western cultures, Penang welcomes such events here."
Yeoh said Penang is a place with inclusiveness and moderation, hence they welcome more artists and concert organisers to hold events in the 'Pearl of the Orient'.
He also urged detractors of such shows to look at the needs of local entertainers, rather than working on cancelling international shows on the grounds of religious sensitivities.
"It will cause serious economic losses and simultaneously harm our image as a country of moderation. Music is a part of the creative economy and a catalyst to achieve sustainable development by promoting social and economic development in today's society.
"The live entertainment industry not only increases economic benefits, it also creates a spillover effect by creating more jobs."
Yeoh said that as the music industry is already an economic driver and an inspiration for creativity, it can help prepare the country for the endemic phase of Covid-19. There are also many live concerts and events held in the Middle East countries such as UAE, Egypt, Jordan and including in Indonesia, Yeoh said.
He made such remarks as Penang prepares to host the international Miss Asia Global beauty pageant finals at the Setia Spice Convention Hall here this weekend.
Beauties from over 40 countries including Ukraine and Russia have begun to converge in Penang for the glittering event, which Yeoh hopes will further market Penang's standing as a preferred destination in tourism.
Earlier, the Gurney Plaza mall hosted the localised Miss Yosakai beauty pageant here.
Its general manager, Peter Chan, welcomed several local beauties to explore the world of Yosakai fashion where they were adjudged on who wore the best Japanese traditional attire of kimono.
The winner was Christine Wong while second place went to Dhivyaa Murthi and third place, Charlene Teoh.
The other participants were Yeoh Ji Qing, Nuraisyah Ahmad Fuad, Tan Yimin, Wong Tze Hui and Sit Ching Mei. – The Vibes, September 13, 2022
