Kuala Lumpur: The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) will be the first facility to fully implement the Guidelines for the Organisation of Concerts and Festivals prepared by the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS), to ensure concerts held are safer and more ethical, especially for electronic dance music (EDM).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh stated that in addition to the guidelines provided by the ministry, the SIC will also implement several additional measures, including that all artists performing are required to deliver health messages every hour. Promotional materials on safety, drug dangers, and emergency measures will also be displayed throughout the event.
“This effort (guidelines) proves the serious commitment of KBS in ensuring that entertainment and youth activities are organised in a healthier, safer and more responsible environment. KBS is determined to build an entertainment culture that celebrates healthy living, in line with the values of Malaysia MADANI,” she said at a press conference today.
Hannah explained that the guidelines, which came into effect on April 21, include measures to prevent drug abuse, controlled management of alcoholic beverages, hydration points, chill-out zones, and medical preparedness.
When asked if the guidelines applied to concerts held at private facilities, Hannah expressed her belief that the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) would adopt the same guidelines. “These guidelines were developed together with the PDRM, and for EDM concerts organised in private areas, they still require police permission and feedback, so I am confident that the police will consistently use the same guidelines for them.”
Meanwhile, SIC Chief Executive Officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif said that apart from complying with the guidelines provided by KBS, the SIC also introduced several additional safety measures. These include ensuring that the number of paramedics, ambulances, treatment facilities, and rest areas is sufficient based on the number of visitors.
“Medical personnel, the ratio of doctors, ambulances, and roving paramedics are based on the size of the crowds, including one doctor for every 10,000 visitors, an ambulance for every 2,000 visitors, and one roving paramedic for every 500 visitors. Organisers are also required to set up a medical bay for minor treatment onsite, and for events with more than 3,000 attendees, a minimum of two treatment areas with holding beds must be provided to cater to those needing further care,” he said.