THE Ministry of Communications has clarified that the recently updated PUSPAL Guidelines (GPP 6.0) do not impose any dress or conduct codes on concertgoers, contrary to public perception following a news report published by The Star on 21 September.
In a statement issued today, the Foreign Filming and Foreign Artiste Performance Application Committee (JK-PUSPAL) stated that the directive applies exclusively to performers and organisers, not members of the public attending events.
“The guidelines strictly govern the attire and behaviour of performing artists,” said the committee. “They do not extend to concertgoers. Any suggestions related to the audience are merely recommendations, conveyed through concert organisers as part of broader efforts to uphold decorum.”
JK-PUSPAL explained that the guidance is intended to align public conduct with Malaysia’s multicultural sensitivities, and to preserve national harmony.
As committee representative Nik Kamaruzaman Nik Husin noted, “While the guidelines primarily focus on organisers and performers, they do indirectly extend to audience conduct through the organisers’ obligations.”
The ministry also advised event organisers to take all necessary steps to ensure safety and order, especially at concerts where alcohol or drug use may pose risks to attendees. These measures are expected to be in place before, during and after performances to minimise any unwanted incidents.
Further information about the guidelines is available on the official PUSPAL website or by contacting the committee directly via the Unit PUSPAL. - September 22, 2025
