BDS Malaysia Criticises Siti Nurhaliza For Performing At David Foster's Concert
Netizens are divided on Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza's appearance at David Foster's concert over the weekend.
By Yap Wan Xiang — 18 Jun 2024, 06:40 PM
Boycott, Divest, Sanction (BDS) Malaysia has criticised national songstress Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza for performing at a concert organised by David Foster, a known supporter of the Zionist regime
In a statement on 15 June, the same day as the concert, the group said it was "very disappointed" at Siti Nurhaliza's participation in the Canadian record producer's show.
"BDS Malaysia has been informed that [on 15 June 2024], Datuk Sri Siti Nurhaliza will be performing at a show in Jakarta, Indonesia, entitled Hitman Returns: David Foster and Friends.
"This show is organised by the famous Canadian composer David Foster. He is also a very strong supporter of the Israeli Zionist regime. He is often involved in efforts to contribute funds to the army of the Zionist regime of Israel in events organised by Friends of Israel Defense Forces," said BDS Malaysia.
It urged artistes, business people, athletes, the government, and members of the public to show greater sensitivity to the suffering of the Palestinians by distancing themselves from any party associated with Israel.
"The most minor action that can be taken is to boycott the Zionist regime of Israel as well as organisations and individuals who are directly involved in supporting the atrocities that are happening in Palestine," it added.
"Siti" is trending on X, formerly Twitter, today, 18 June, following BDS Malaysia's statement
Netizens are split on Siti's involvement in Foster's concert. Some defend her, citing her outspoken support for Palestinians, while others said she should have been more cautious.
"We boycott Israel because we want to put pressure on their economy. Siti Nurhaliza performed at the concert to fulfil the Indonesian organiser's invitation. [In this situation], how was Siti affiliated with Israel?" asked an X user.
"I am a fan of Siti Nurhaliza and recognise her support for Palestine. But I think Siti and her team made an honest mistake. They didn't know Foster was a zionist. Siti's team should be more sensitive and conduct background checks. They need to take responsibility for this action," wrote another netizen.
Some netizens are urging the 45-year-old singer to break her silence on the issue.
"Siti Nurhaliza has to speak up. She can't keep quiet like this. Not only because she chose to be on the same stage with the zionists, but now members of her fan club have started harassing people and artistes, and belittling the boycott and solidarity movements for Palestine," tweeted a person.
"Pretty sure Siti Nurhaliza can live without doing this concert. Just pull yourself out of this. All of us need to walk the talk," wrote a netizen on the day of the concert.
It is understood that English singer Jessie J was originally scheduled to perform at the Saturday concert, but a last-minute cancellation led to Siti stepping in for her
On 5 April, Jessie expressed her excitement about performing in Indonesia and thanked Foster for inviting her to share the stage with him.
Other performers at the concert included American singers Brian McKnight, Katharine McPhee, and Josh Groban.
Last weekend was not Siti's first performance a concert organised by Foster. In August last year, she performed at his concert at Mega Star Arena in Sungei Wang Plaza, Kuala Lumpur.
