Singer slammed for baring chest

2008-01-16 15:19

Kuala Lumpur - A popular rock singer has apologised for sparking an uproar in Muslim-majority Malaysia by baring his chest during a live TV concert and will do community service to atone for the stunt, his record company said on Wednesday.

Faizal Tahir - one of Malaysia's most exuberant stage performers - stripped off his jacket, undershirt and belt and flung them into the audience at a Kuala Lumpur concert on Sunday. The moves revealed a bright red Superman logo painted on his chest.

Television network 8TV said in a statement it was "utterly shocked and caught by surprise" by the stunt.

Faizal, who shot to fame in 2006 when he was the runner-up in a reality singing competition, will face six months' probation at 8TV, during which he cannot appear on the network's shows.

He also must take part in 8TV community projects, such as working at an orphanage or retirement home, said Mohamad Helmy Hamdan, an executive at Faizal's record label.

Faizal, 29, who is married with two children, told the New Straits Times newspaper he was "truly sorry".

"I did not realise it would be an insult to many. I now realise that taking off one's shirt is a big no," Faizal said.

Faizal could not immediately be contacted, but Mohamad Helmy confirmed the comments.

"He shouldn't have done this. It's national television," he said. "He got too excited."

Malaysia's government has strict guidelines for entertainers, who must cover up from chest to knee onstage. Jumping, hugging, kissing and throwing objects at the audience are prohibited.

In 2006, the Malaysian organiser of a Pussycat Dolls concert was fined after the group was accused of flouting decency regulations.

- AP