Malaysia Lambchopped

Malaysia’s Ministry of Communications and Multimedia rejected the American group’s planned concert due to perceived infringements on “religious sensitivities and cultural values” among the Malaysian population.

The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) also objected to the concert.

A Jakim spokesman said that Lamb of God used verses from the Quran in their songs.

In response, the band issued a statement that said in part, “It is very evident (and a bit frustrating) that the groups, parties and powers that have taken the most offense to our music and lyrics have themselves only made a passing glance at the content and meaning of those songs.

“We would invite anyone offended by our music to engage in a discussion regarding the true motivations behind our work, especially before publicly slandering us based on assumptions and shallow misinterpretation.”

The concert’s promoter, Livescape Asia, issued an apology to fans and said it would refund all ticket sales. During the same tour, Lamb of God will also play in New Zealand, Australia and Thailand.