GUIDELINES on concerts on university campuses are still pending approval, Higher Education Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin said.

He told Malaysiakini that the proposed guidelines had not been submitted to him for approval.

“Not yet approved,” he said.

The online portal, reported that China Press had spotted the guidelines where concert attendees are required to follow a modest dress code, which prohibits the wearing of clothing featuring Illuminati, pro-LGBT, or pornographic symbols, as well as “punk” hairstyles.

It also said artistes are restricted from cross-dressing or wearing attire that is typical of the opposite gender, for instance, male performers are prohibited from wearing earrings, bracelets and shorts.

On June 18, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had said he would meet with the Higher Education Ministry to discuss the appropriate flexibility on the organisation of concerts at public institutions of higher learning.

He said he would listen to views regarding the matter.

“I am not giving leeway for youth to be corrupted. It is important to safeguard our moral standards,” he had said.

“The government will probably allow the organisation of programmes such as cultural events, but they should be held in a small scale and controlled manner.”

According to China Press, local higher education institutions reportedly received the guidelines on Wednesday. – September 1, 2023.