Beyonce promotes hedonism, says Pas

(NST) KUALA LUMPUR: Pas Youth is not against entertainment, but it objects to American superstar Beyonce's concert here on Oct 25, as she is known for her sexy attire and seductive dancing, said the wing's vice-chief.

Ahmad Sabki said yesterday they were unhappy with the trend of bringing in Western groups to Malaysia.

"We know that these groups are not suitable for our Malaysian culture. Their appearance and attire are against our Eastern identity."

He said even if Beyonce were to dress in a jubah (Muslim attire), she was still known for her "sexy image".

"We are against Western entertainment that promotes hedonism. We do not want our youths to be misled.

"We have in the past objected to Indonesian dangdut artiste Inul Daratista performing in Malaysia as she is also well known for her sexy gyrations."

He regretted that the media had portrayed Pas as a conservative party that seeks to ban entertainment.

Beyonce is coming to Malaysia for the first time as part of her "Beyonce I Am …" world tour.

She was scheduled to perform in Malaysia in 2007 but gave Kuala Lumpur a miss and performed in Jakarta instead.

The Information, Communication and Culture Ministry could not be reached for comment. Concert organiser Marctensia marketing head Michael Chan said they would issue a press statement today.