Key facts
- Two members of Massive Attack were banned from Singapore and issued stern warnings.
- The ban followed the display of a Palestinian flag during a concert on July 29.
- Authorities cited support for a political cause and unfurling a foreign flag without a permit.
- One band member also shouted "Free Palestine."
- The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) will not approve future performances by the band in Singapore.
Two members of the British band Massive Attack have been banned from re-entering Singapore and issued stern warnings by authorities after displaying a Palestinian flag during a concert on July 29. The police and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) stated that the band members were investigated for their actions of support for a political cause and unfurling of a foreign flag.
During the concert at The Star Theatre, videos showed two members holding a Palestinian flag on stage while the audience cheered. One of the band members also shouted "Free Palestine." Singapore law prohibits the public display of foreign national emblems without a permit or exemption, with potential penalties including fines and jail time.
Following investigations, the two men received stern warnings for offenses under the Foreign National Emblems (Control of Display) Act and the Public Order Act. Consequently, they have been banned from re-entering Singapore. The IMDA will also not grant any future applications for performances by the music collective in Singapore due to the entry ban. The IMDA is further investigating possible breaches of license conditions, including a stipulation against displaying flags in support of any causes.
Authorities emphasized that they take a serious view of acts that could harm racial and religious harmony in Singapore, urging both the public and foreigners to refrain from importing foreign politics to maintain social cohesion and uphold the rule of law.