Malaysian netizens debunk online misinformation about Coldplay’s one-eyed costume and hand gestures

MALAYSIA: Although the Coldplay concert in Malaysia concluded on 22 November, the aftermath continues to stir controversy.

Online clips surfaced showcasing the band’s lead vocalist, Chris Martin, donning a one-eyed mask and making certain gestures during their performance, sparking widespread discussions across social media platforms.

A video posted by an account on X (formerly Twitter) on 28 November gained considerable attention, reaching 1.1 million views as of now.

The post faced scrutiny for its misleading captions, “Worship me, and follow me.”

The X user added fuel to the fire by stating, “The Malay community is becoming increasingly negligent.”

“Sembahlah aku, dan ikutlah aku”

Warga melayu sekarang semakin lalau pic.twitter.com/RdCWcy4TSH

— sleepy rabbit 🐰 (@MairaSharapova) November 28, 2023

The controversy has ignited debates among Malaysian netizens regarding cultural sensitivity and accurate interpretation of concert events.

Netizens slam post for disseminating misinformation

Following its circulation, the post encountered substantial backlash as netizens condemned the dissemination of misinformation.

Critics pointed out that Chris Martin was using sign language for Coldplay’s popular song, “Something Just Like This.”

One comment expressed clear frustration, highlighting that the sign language was specifically meant for deaf attendees at the concert.

Additionally, another netizen clarified that the gestures aligned with Coldplay’s song lyrics, urging caution against spreading inaccurate information.

A comment highlighted a possible underlying motive behind the post, implying that it might have been crafted to boost engagement without considering the potential repercussions of sparking contentious debates among netizens.

A skeptical netizen questioned the authenticity of the translation, asking, “Is it based on your own translation, sis?”

Others expressed suspicion about the post’s intentions, debating whether the post was serious or merely a form of playful engagement.

One netizen observed sarcasm in the X’s post, noting that it unintentionally triggered a significant response, as OP also posted a picture of herself attending the concert.

Concerns about potential legal consequences were raised in a comment advising the OP to be cautious about posting online, emphasizing the risk of being sued for spreading false information.

Misconceptions surrounding Coldplay’s one-eyed costume

On 28 November, the same day before the previous post gained widespread attention, another X account, “thepatriotasia,” expressed dismay over the misinformation circulating among Malaysian social media users regarding Chris Martin’s use of a one-eyed costume.

"Topeng Mata Satu Coldplay Kait Dengan Dajjal?"

Baru-baru ni, saya ternampak satu video di mana Chris Martin pakai topeng mata satu ketika konsert tetapi video ni diselitkan subtitle merepek dan sekali dengan Qunut Nazilah untuk gerunkan penonton.

Geleng kepala saya tengok. pic.twitter.com/GYidmZ9xOJ

— The Patriots (@thepatriotsasia) November 28, 2023

The post questioned, “Is the one-eyed head mask related to Dajjal?” (an evil figure in Islamic beliefs).

The X user recounted encountering a video where Chris Martin wore a one-eyed head mask during a concert.

The video was manipulated with nonsensical subtitles and even included Qunut Nazilah to create a spooky atmosphere, leaving the OP in disbelief.

The X account provided detailed information on why Coldplay opted for the one-eyed costume, referencing a report from the United Kingdom’s Daily Mail Online.

Contrary to claims, the one-eyed head mask represents an alien, not Dajjal.

Chris Martin explained in the report that they chose to wear alien head masks to express freedom, emphasizing their belief “in the equality of all people and all beings.”

Speaking to ColdplayXtra, Chris elaborated, stating that the use of alien imagery is allegorical, symbolizing their discussions about life on Earth without direct criticism or finger-pointing.

This clarification aims to dispel misconceptions surrounding the symbolism behind Coldplay’s one-eyed head masks and provides insight into the band’s intention of promoting equality and freedom through their unique choice of imagery.

Religious opposition to Coldplay’s Malaysian concerts

Coldplay has grappled with dissent surrounding their performances in Malaysia.

On 16 November, the chairman of Majlis Ulama Ikatan Muslimin (Isma), Datuk Zamri Hashim, issued a statement calling for the cancellation of the concert.

Hashim deemed it insensitive and disrespectful, particularly in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Palestine.

The religious council urged Muslims to abstain from participating in the concert, emphasizing that ignorance about the situation in Palestine is considered a sin subject to scrutiny.

In parallel, Muhammad Hanif Jamaluddin, the vice-chairman of PAS Dewan Pemuda, echoed the sentiment that Coldplay’s concert should be canceled as a gesture of solidarity with the Palestinian people.

Adding to his stance, Muhammad Hanif declared that the entertainment aspect of the Coldplay concert contradicts the sanctity of the Muslims’ struggle to stand united with Palestinians.