Two members of the British trip-hop band Massive Attack have been banned from re-entering Singapore following a concert where they displayed a Palestinian flag. The incident occurred on July 29 at The Star Theatre, the band's only scheduled stop in the city-state during their current international tour. During the performance, two band members unfurled the flag on stage while one also chanted "Free Palestine," an act that drew cheers from the audience but immediate scrutiny from local authorities.
Singapore maintains strict laws regarding public speech and assembly, including a prohibition on the display of foreign national emblems or banners without a permit. Following an investigation by the Singapore Police Force and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), the two musicians were issued stern warnings for breaching the Foreign National Emblems (Control of Display) Act and the Public Order Act. In addition to the entry ban for the two individuals, the IMDA announced that it will no longer approve future performance applications for the band in Singapore.
Authorities stated that the decision was necessary to uphold racial and religious harmony, emphasizing that the display of foreign political symbols can lead to social friction. The event organizer, who had previously acknowledged the licensing conditions that prohibit performers from supporting political causes, is also under investigation for potential breaches. As of now, Massive Attack has not issued a public statement regarding the ban or the investigation.