THE past week has indeed been a trying one for Faizal Tahir, the singer who stripped off his shirt during a live concert on 8TV.

While many have condemned him for staging such a stunt, many of his fans have stood by him, saying that “it was just part of the act”.

Although I didn’t think it was a big deal, nevertheless, I would describe his stunt as inappropriate, especially in this country and more so on a live television broadcast.

Following a tearful press conference where Faizal issued an apology to viewers, 8TV and the Malaysian government, he was ordered to perform six months of community service.

Subsequently, he was ban-ned by the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) from appearing in any entertainment programmes on private stations, either aired live or pre-recorded, for the next three months.

A similar ban was imposed on 8TV when the commission revoked the approval given to the station to air live or delayed telecasts of all concerts and entertainment shows.

It would also not approve any applications for live or delayed telecasts of any concerts and entertainment programmes on 8TV for the next three months, effective Jan 15.

Although I believe that a punishment is fitting, I feel that the actions taken against Faizal have been harsh.

This is especially so since he has been banned from performing at the Anugerah Juara Lagu event where he was scheduled to perform two songs in the ballad category.

This is a big blow not only to Faizal but also to two composers, Audi Mok and Ajai, whose chances of winning depend on the performer’s delivery of the song, in this case, Faizal.

I appeal to the authorities to reduce the penalties imposed on Faizal.

Since this is his first offence, I hope the parties concerned will rethink this issue and reduce his penalty, or at least allow him to perform at Anugerah Juara Lagu.

I am sure that he has learnt a painful lesson and, after all, everyone deserves a second chance.

M.Z., Petaling Jaya

Source: NST – January 23, 2008