August 20, 2008 19:36

Malaysia deems Avril Lavigne 'too sexy'

The government scraps Canadian singer's show

The Malaysian government has cancelled Avril Lavigne's concert that was scheduled to take place on August 29, deeming it "too sexy".

The Muslim nation's Arts, Culture and Heritage Ministry announced today (August 20) that the Canadian singer would not be allowed to perform two days before the nation will celebrate its Independence Day because "It's not in the spirit of our National Day," a senior official told the Associated Press.

The government is reportedly considering allowing the concert to go ahead at another time.

Earlier this week, the youth wing of the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party protested Lavigne's appearance, saying they didn't want their teenagers influenced by her performance, as previously reported.

"It is considered too sexy for us...it's not good for viewers in Malaysia," a spokesperson said.

Several female artists including Gwen Stefani and the Pussycat Dolls have run into trouble in Malaysia, which requires all performers to be covered from knees to chest and refrain from jumping, shouting, hugging and kissing on stage.

--By our Los Angeles staff.
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