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Flag display triggers probe
Singapore authorities opened investigations after two members of the British trip-hop group Massive Attack ended their performance on Wednesday with a display of the Palestinian flag, according to local media reports.
“issued with stern warnings and barred from re-entering Singapore”
The Infocomm Media Development Authority said it is investigating a possible breach of a number of license conditions and will take "necessary action" when investigations are completed, while Singapore police issued "stern warnings" concerning alleged offences under Section 3 of the Foreign National Emblems (Control of Display) Act 1949 and Section 16 of the Public Order Act.
Singapore does not allow the public display of foreign national emblems without a permit or exemption, and the Palestinian flag is especially sensitive given the war in Gaza and Singapore's Muslim population.
In 2023, Singapore's home affairs ministry said: "The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict is an emotive issue. We would like to advise against the public display and wearing of articles in relation to the conflict, given the heightened sensitivities."
Police, IMDA, and chants
The BBC reported that the band's two members held up a Palestinian flag at the show on Wednesday and shouted "free Palestine," with some in the audience reportedly joining them.
A police spokeswoman told the BBC that following an investigation the two band members had been issued "stern warnings" concerning alleged offences under Section 3 of the Foreign National Emblems (Control of Display) Act 1949 and Section 16 of the Public Order Act.
Singapore's police force banned Massive Attack from future entry into the country, while its media regulator simultaneously said it would not grant future applications for them to perform there, according to the BBC.
The BBC also said the Singapore police and the Infocomm Media Development Authority were investigating a possible breach of licence conditions, and that Singapore's police "take a serious view of acts which could potentially harm the racial and religious harmony in Singapore."
Bans, fines, and next dates
Authorities told Channel News Asia that "reports were lodged and investigations are ongoing," and the IMDA said it was investigating a possible breach of licence conditions after the flag display at the Star Theatre.
“fine of up to S$500 ($390), be sentenced to up to six months”
The National reported that those convicted of breaching the rules can be fined up to S$500 ($390), be sentenced to up to six months in prison, or face both penalties, while it also said it was not yet clear whether any members of Massive Attack or the concert’s production team could face charges.
The BBC said Massive Attack's next show was due to be held in Seoul on Saturday, and Rolling Stone said the band was scheduled to perform Saturday, August 1 in Seoul, South Korea.
The Times of Israel and the Jerusalem Post both said two members of Massive Attack were barred from re-entering Singapore after the concert ended with the Palestinian flag display, with the Times of Israel adding that the act can carry a fine of up to SGD 5,000 and/or six months in prison under local law.
