Local promoters taking steps to deal with possible threats

PETALING JAYA: Shaken by the terror attack at the Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, local promoters are going the extra mile to deal with possible security threats.

Arts, Live, International Festivals and Events Association (Alife), a non-profit organisation representing companies managing, presenting and promoting live events in Malaysia, is planning a certification course for all concert promoters.

“All promoters will have to be certified by Alife, with security being one of the main subjects. We will get the police and anti-terrorism experts to train our promoters,” said Alife president R. Para.

He said while concert promoters have been taking measures to ensure the safety of concert-goers, “the certification will streamline the processes and procedures involved”.

He said the body was seeking approval from the Communications and Multimedia Ministry and planned to launch the course by August.

Tony Nagamaiah, general manager of Malaysia Major Events (MME) which is an agency under the Tourism and Culture Ministry, said the body wanted to improve security for live events in Malaysia.

“We are working closely with Alife on a new and improved security plan. It will be used as SOP for all live events in Malaysia.”

He said present security measures included heavy police presence with help from Rela and private security personnel.

“These security measures have been enforced for over 20 years. It is time we update and improve it to ensure that we are always ahead of the terror threat,” he said, adding that MME was also working closely with counterparts in Australia for latest insights.

Future Sound Asia director Ben Law said extra security measures would be introduced at the Good Vibes Festival scheduled in Genting Highlands on Aug 12 and 13.

“There will be a bomb squad to check the area. Our venue partner, Resort World Genting, has also been very supportive,” he added.