Malaysian fans of American pop star Bruno Mars are experiencing mixed emotions about his upcoming performance in Kuala Lumpur on September 17. The controversy arises from Mars’ alleged support of the Israeli regime.
Vanessa, a social media manager and longtime fan since 2010, initially considered attending the concert but changed her mind after learning about Mars’ performance in Tel Aviv.
“This genocide against Palestine has been happening for decades now,” she stated. “Mars should step forward and condemn the Israeli government, as there have been many instances of the Israeli military committing atrocities against Palestinians. Staying silent on the matter means you’re ignorant or complicit,” the 24-year-old added.
Mental health therapist and corporate trainer Alia Alias shared Vanessa’s sentiments. Despite being a huge fan of Mars, she chose not to buy tickets after seeing a statement from BDS Malaysia, an organization she trusts for its thorough research.
“I didn’t think much about the concert at first until I saw BDS Malaysia’s statement. I know that the organization does its research, which is why I’m choosing not to go,” said Alia, 35.
Alia believes canceling the concert wouldn’t be a significant loss, citing upcoming performances by English-Albanian singer Dua Lipa and American pop rock band LANY as suitable alternatives. However, she doubted the concert would be canceled due to the dissent.
“These things take a long time to plan. But I wouldn’t be surprised if there will be a mini protest outside the venue,” she remarked.
BDS Malaysia, a non-violent Palestinian-led movement advocating for boycott, divestment, and economic sanctions against Israel, has called for a boycott of Mars’ concert. The organization criticized Mars for remaining silent about Israel’s actions in Palestine and for performing in Tel Aviv last October.
Contrastingly, a university student known only as Matt expressed that the concert should proceed, noting that Mars had never openly supported the Israeli military.
“I think the boycott should only apply to public figures who actively support the Zionist regime,” Matt argued. He added that canceling Mars’ concert would be a greater loss for Malaysia than for the performer himself.
“He is a really big star. Canceling this concert is just going to be a missed opportunity for our country,” Matt said.
On June 21, concert organizer Live Nation announced that Mars would perform a one-night show at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium. Known for hits such as “Grenade,” “Just The Way You Are,” and “Versace On The Floor,” Mars last performed in Malaysia in 2018.
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