Erykah Badu Show Banned in Malaysia Because Of Her Tattoo + Badu Responds

February 29, 2012 by Kellie Williams in Latest News with 4 Comments

41-year-old singer Erykah Badu was set to perform today (February 29) in a concert of about 3,000 people at Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. However, due to a seemingly harmless tattoo, her show was banned. In a publicity photo shoot with one of Malaysia’s most widely read papers, The Star, Badu was photographed with a tattoo of the Arabic word “Allah” on her shoulder. A government committee in Malaysia, which includes some law enforcement officials and politicians, concluded that banning her show was an appropriate course of action for the tattoo. In a statement, Information Minister Rais Yatim said the body art was,

“an insult to Islam and a very serious offense.” He also stated that that the photo, “triggered public criticism that could jeopardize national security and cause a negative impact to the government’s image.”

The magazine apologized to the offended parties, saying on Tuesday,

“We deeply regret any offense caused to Muslims and sincerely apologize for the oversight.”

The Kuala Lumpur Culture, Arts and Heritage ministry has since called on the editors of the paper to explain the picture. Muslim activists have also demanded their suspension and have been seen protesting outside their offices. Razman Razali, managing director of the show, is hoping the decision will be overturned, as he reports that Badu is “worried and dismayed.” Badu has been allowed to stay on in Malaysia, but only as a tourist. The RnB star also took to her twitter, engaging in a retweeting spree of her supportive fans and also explained the innocent story behind the tattoo. She also announced a press conference which took place yesterday.