However, Malaysian and Chinese organizers asked for the delay, citing worries over swine flu.

Akon’s tour was originally planned to start July 4 in Manila. Now the singer’s tour of Asia is tentatively scheduled to begin Oct. 23 in the Philippines capital and run through Nov. 7.

ABS-CBN ran a taped message from the singer stating the tour was postponed because of “unforeseen circumstances,” and that tickets purchased for the original dates would be honored at the rescheduled shows. At no time during the message did Akon mention swine flu.