UMNO has called for a reassessment of public entertainment events to ensure they uphold religious sensitivities, cultural values, and societal norms after controversy surrounding the Rain Rave Water Music Festival 2026 in Kuala Lumpur [1]. UMNO President Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said entertainment must have limits and not compromise core values. He urged event organisers to cooperate with authorities to maintain social harmony. "UMNO’s principle on entertainment is clear: there is nothing wrong with entertainment, but it must have limits. Progress can continue, but values must not be compromised," he said [1].
Before UMNO’s statement on May 1, the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (JAWI) had already objected to the Rain Rave festival, warning that it could cause moral harm and erode societal values. JAWI urged organisers to reconsider the event’s concept to align better with community standards [1]. The Federal Territories Mufti Department also weighed in prior to May 1. While saying Islam does not reject entertainment outright, it must follow religious guidelines and avoid elements that violate moral and ethical standards, according to the Bayan Linnas Series 351 released by the Mufti Department [1].
UMNO’s position represents the official line of the party regarding public entertainment events amid the backlash against Rain Rave 2026 [1]. The call for clearer principles and limits aims to balance enjoyment with respect for Malaysia's diverse cultural and religious makeup.
UMNO President Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi highlighted the need for organisers to engage authorities to safeguard social harmony, emphasizing that progress should not come at the expense of community values [1].
The party’s call followed its May 1 Facebook post urging reassessment and limits on public entertainment events to protect societal norms in Malaysia [1].
