Communications Ministry denies blame for cancellation of (G)I-DLE & BamBam Concert

THE Ministry of Communications has issued a formal clarification denying that the cancellation of the much-anticipated “(G)I-DLE & BamBam Live in Malaysia” concert was due to a rejection by its foreign performance licensing committee, JK-PUSPAL.

In a statement released Thursday, the ministry refuted claims circulating in local media that the concert, originally scheduled for 14 June 2025, had been called off due to a failure to obtain the necessary approval from JK-PUSPAL (the Central Committee for Filming and Performance by Foreign Artistes).

“JK-PUSPAL wishes to stress that allegations the concert was cancelled due to a lack of approval are completely untrue. According to our records, pre-approval for the event was issued on 28 April 2025,” the ministry said.

It explained that the decision to cancel the concert was made by the organisers themselves, following internal considerations and based on a request submitted to the committee. The ministry emphasised that such decisions are often shaped by logistical, financial and regulatory challenges involving multiple stakeholders.

“In this matter, the organisers are required to undertake thorough preparations, including securing early approvals from the relevant authorities, as stipulated under the PUSPAL Guidelines (GPP), before proceeding with any event featuring prominent international artistes,” the statement added.

The clarification comes after fans and commentators expressed confusion and disappointment over the sudden cancellation, which had been attributed in some quarters to regulatory hurdles. The statement is intended to preserve transparency and accountability in Malaysia’s live entertainment licensing process.

JK-PUSPAL functions as a coordinating body under the Ministry of Communications, responsible for overseeing performances and filming activities involving foreign artistes in Malaysia.

It requires organisers to meet compliance standards that prioritise public interest, national values and proper conduct.

The concert which involves famous international artists, as such the group, falls under the PUSPAL (GPP) guidelines, the statement added. - June 5, 2025