Don't punish fans who hugged K-pop band members, says M'sia minister
The Malaysian fans who were hugged by members of K-pop band B1A4 last weekend should be given counselling and advice, said Communications and Multimedia Minister Ahmad Shabery Cheek.
He said incidents involving the audience often happen out of spontaneity and are difficult to manage.
"Sometimes things that we dislike happen and these things should be dealt with by giving advice, not only to the performer but also to those in attendance," he said at a press conference on Thursday.
"That is the best option."
Public indecency
His comments come after it was reported in local media that the Federal Territories Islamic Department (Jawi) was investigating the girls for public indecency and outraging Muslims.
Jawi director Paimuzi Yahya reportedly said that the religious body would apply for an arrest warrant if the girls did not come forward to help with the investigation in a week's time.
Mr Ahmad Shabery said at the press conference that a punitive measure was not necessary for every unfavourable incident.
"I believe in Islam, being a preacher is better than being 'qadi' (a judge) or a punisher in everything," he added.
A video clip of the incident has gone viral on social media.
It shows band members hugging several tudung-clad girls during a performance in Kuala Lumpur.
Source: The Star Online
Related report:
M'sian fans who hugged K-pop band B1A4 could face arrest for public indecency
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