Malaysia censors Gaga

Malaysian radio stations are censoring the gay references in Lady Gaga’s Born This Way due to concerns that the lyrics might breach the nation’s strict decency laws.

Broadcasters have singled out the line “no matter gay, straight or bi, lesbian, transgendered life, I’m on the right track, baby”, distorting the audio to make the lyrics incomprehensible.

One of Malaysia’s biggest radio networks, AMP, said the unusual precaution was due to government restrictions against songs that violate “good taste or decency or [are] offensive to public feeling.”

The company released a statement, saying: “The particular lyrics in Born This Way may be considered as offensive when viewed against Malaysia’s social and religious observances.”

“The issue of being gay, lesbian or [bisexual] is still considered as a ‘taboo’ by general Malaysians.”

Gay rights groups in the country have taken issue with the move, labeling it homophobic.

Activist Pang Khee Teik criticised the censorship, saying the media should be “a platform for marginalised voices and create understanding, not perpetuate ignorance and hate.”

Malaysian radio stations face fines up of to 50,000 ringgit ($16,000) for contravening government legislation.

Via The Jakarta Globe.