Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, has confirmed that the controversial performance featuring Thai male entertainers at Miri’s New Year’s celebration has been officially cancelled.
He explained that the decision followed objections from various parties, including protests by non-governmental organizations and police reports. After discussions with the Miri City Council, the organizers agreed to withdraw the performance.
“After discussions, I was informed that the performance, deemed too provocative, has been officially removed from the program,” he said while attending the closing ceremony of the Malaysian Martial Arts Carnival yesterday.
Abdul Karim emphasized that the New Year celebration itself is not an issue and can continue, but all program content must align with Sarawak’s diverse social values, traditional customs, and social sensitivities.
He stressed that any entertainment event must undergo early and thorough approval by relevant authorities, including local government and police, to avoid content that could trigger public outrage or social discontent.
The minister also reminded organizers of their social responsibility, noting that even events without government funding should not include elements conflicting with local culture.
The so-called “Thai Male Show” originated from Staneemeehoi Seafood Restaurant at Bangkok’s Hua Nan Night Market. The act features muscular men dressed in women’s clothing or revealing sleepwear, dancing provocatively to loud music and interacting closely with diners.
The group was previously invited to perform at a restaurant opening on Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman in Kuala Lumpur at the end of 2023, but the invitation was cancelled following polarized reactions online. A planned appearance in Petaling Jaya in July for the event “Thai Male Show at MPO” was also cancelled due to strong public opposition.
