Following the tragic incident at New Year’s Eve’s Pinkfish Festival, the Malaysian government has discussed ways to make concerts safer for everyone. On 22nd April 2025 (Tuesday), the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) introduced new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for organising concerts.
These SOPs are already observed at ministry facilities such as the Perbadanan Stadium Malaysia (PSM) and the Sepang International Circuit (SIC). According to KBS Minister Hannah Yeoh, the SOPs are a proactive measure to curb drug abuse amongst concertgoers and ensure organisers and guests conduct entertainment activities in a safe environment. Here are the five SOPs:
Hydration Points
The first SOP introduced is that the concert venue should include at least one Hydration Point on site to overcome dehydration. However, this would affect the usual concert rule of no food or drinks allowed into the venue.
Medical Team
The next SOP introduced is having a medical team on-site for emergency cases. Having medical teams is standard for larger concerts and music festivals. However, smaller venues will likely have to follow suit from now on.
PSA Messages
The ministry also asked concert organisers to display trailer messages, posters or videos on the dangers of drugs. The messages should also educate the public on the necessary actions in case of an emergency.
Nearby Hospitals
Another SOP on the list also calls for nearby hospitals to prepare to manage victims should any incident occur during a concert. Concert organisers can prepare for this by informing nearby hospitals of an upcoming event.
K9 Units
The last SOP calls for K9 units stationed at the venue for safety controls. Some security companies provide K9 units with trained dogs and handlers. The local police force should also be available to assist if necessary.
Additionally, smoking and vaping in the ministry facilities are strictly prohibited. All concert and event organisers at non-ministry facilities are encouraged to use the SOPs to ensure the safety and well-being of attendees. However, there’s no news on whether concert organisers who fail to adhere to these SOPs would face legal action. Regardless, it’s worth taking note of these even as a concertgoer. What are your thoughts on this?
