Malaysia should capitalise on music tourism, says ALIFE chairman
The government’s decision to reduce the entertainment tax, from 25 to 10 per cent in Budget 2024, is a welcome relief for those in the industry and will help generate more income for the country through music tourism.
Arts, Live Festivals and Events Association (ALIFE) chairman R. Paramanathan said he was grateful to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for listening to the woes of tour promoters.
“I applaud the government for its decision, as there are many types of tourism; from medical, eco, cultural, to business. Now we can add one more – music,” said Paramanathan.
“Music tourism is big business, and Malaysia can be at the forefront as we are a relatively cheap destination which offers all of Asia under one roof.
“We have big acts coming to Malaysia. Ed Sheeran will perform later this month (Feb 24). We must find a way to capitalise on these shows.”
He said that for the recent Coldplay concert, one million people were in the online queue to buy tickets for the show at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
Unfortunately, only 81,812 tickets were available.
“I was in Singapore when the band played there after their show in Malaysia. I can tell you, easily 20,000 Malaysians attended the concerts there,” said Paramanathan.
“That is 20,000 Malaysians spending money in another country. If we had four concerts like Singapore, I am confident we would have filled the stadium each night.
“However, many were upset that we had a concert in the stadium, as they felt that it would damage the field, but that is just an excuse.”
He said Sunday’s Super Bowl final in Las Vegas, in the United States, was a perfect example of blending music and sports, as the halftime show by Usher was done on the playing field itself.
“The players had no issues with the concert on the field. It is because of the good maintenance,” said Paramanathan.
“However, many in Malaysia think that concerts damage the playing surfaces. Perhaps it is time to build a dedicated concert venue in the country.
“That way, we can have as many concerts as possible. It will benefit local and foreign artists.”
He also suggested that Malaysia should look at ways to package the concerts to attract more music fans, especially with Visit Malaysia Year in 2026.
In Belgium, Tomorrowland’s organisers have tailor-made packages for music fans to explore the country before seeing acts at the festival.
“We should do something similar in Malaysia and get the government involved, as we need their support, as there are some people who view concerts as a bad influence on the people,” said Paramanathan.
“With backing from the government, we can bring in more acts, as many want to perform here.
“A few days ago, executives of Anschutz Entertainment Group met with the Thai government to see how it can turn the country into a hub for concerts and festivals. We should do the same in Malaysia as we are a perfect destination for concerts and festivals.”
Two years ago, Malaysia Stadium Corporation signed an agreement with Sportswork Sdn Bhd and event and management company ASM Global to take care of Kuala Lumpur Sports City’s (KLSC) two main venues – the 87,400-capacity National Stadium, and the indoor Axiata Arena, and make it an attractive destination.
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