TV3 apologises for cross-dressers at music event

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Local television station TV3 has put out an apology addressing the recent controversy surrounding its Anugerah Juara Lagu (AJL) music event. AJL is a music competition which showcases performances by local musicians and celebrates the best of Malaysian pop music. It is attended by celebrities who often make an entrance in their best outfits made by renowned fashion designers.

This year, the red carpet at AJL saw a number of male social media influencers dressing in outfits that received flak online. One influencer was seen wearing a long black gown with a matching purse and evening gloves, while another was seen wearing a heart-shaped suit with a matching hat.

In its statement, TV3 said it has deep regret regarding the issue of its male guests attending the event dressed as women.

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It added that it is aware that the incident has caused concern in the community, adding that as a responsible broadcasting channel, it is always committed to complying with the laws and guidelines set by the authorities. This includes guidelines set by the Malaysian government, it added.

In tandem, TV3 emphasised that cross-dressing is never allowed and that it is not in line with the norms and values upheld by the Malaysian society and government. The tv station said that it greatly appreciates the community's views and concerns, and that it will take proactive steps to ensure that a similar incident will not happen again in the future.

A+M has reached out to Media Prima for a statement.

Following the incident, communications minister Fahmi Fadzil reportedly said that the government will be taking strict action against TV stations that violate guidelines. Failure to comply with the guidelines could result in consequences.

Speaking to journalists at the OCBC Premier Private Client Center in Bangsar, the minister expressed disappointment in the TV station for allowing cross-dressing despite being aware of the guidelines. He added that the management should have been more responsible.

The Malaysian government has been on a mission to curb LGBT elements in media. In 2022, the government said that it will be restraining content promoting the LGBT cause in films and on social media. It also said it plans to take strict action against those who promote LGBT content on TikTok and Instagram. This comes after it banned the screening of Marvel's Thor: Love and Thunder and Pixar's Lightyear for showcasing same-sex couples.

Most recently, the government suggested a "kill switch" for concerts with foreign artists following the cancellation of Good Vibes Festival when British band The 1975's lead singer Matty Healy went on a rant against Malaysia's anti-LGBT laws. His rant culminated in a prolonged kiss between him and his bandmate, Ross Macdonald.

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