Muslims banned from Guinness-sponsored gig

An official said Malaysia’s government has barred Muslims from a concert by US hip-hop stars the Black Eyed Peas next month because the event is being sponsored by Guinness.

The Black Eyed Peas will perform at a theme park near Kuala Lumpur on September 25 as part of worldwide celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of Guinness’ flagship brewery in Dublin.

The Malaysian show’s official website said that “the party is only open to non-Muslims aged 18 years and above”.

An official at the Ministry of Information, Communication and Culture said today that the concert would not have been permitted at all under regular circumstances because government regulations forbid alcohol companies from sponsoring concerts.