Bunkface Dropped as Opening Act for Green Day’s Kuala Lumpur Concert

Bunkface Dropped as Opening Act for Green Day’s Kuala Lumpur Concert

KUALA LUMPUR: Popular Malaysian rock band Bunkface will no longer be the opening act for legendary American rock group Green Day at their much-anticipated concert scheduled for February 18 at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil.

The event organizer, GoLive Asia, cited “logistical, scheduling, and production adjustments” as the reason for the change. Despite this alteration, the company reassured fans that the main performance by Green Day would proceed as planned.

“Please rest assured that Green Day’s main performance will proceed as scheduled, and we remain committed to delivering an incredible concert experience for fans,” GoLive Asia stated in an official announcement.

Although no direct reason was given for Bunkface’s removal, it is widely speculated that the decision was influenced by backlash from Green Day fans over the Malaysian band’s perceived anti-LGBT stance. International Green Day fans took to social media to criticize Bunkface, particularly referencing their 2020 song Akhir Zaman, which was accused of carrying anti-LGBT messages.

In response to the controversy at the time, Bunkface defended the song, stating that it was not directed at any specific individual but rather intended as a general statement against what they described as “deviant” lifestyles.

Green Day, on the other hand, has a long-standing reputation for political and social activism, frequently using their music to champion progressive and sometimes controversial causes. The band has openly supported LGBT rights, social justice movements, and various political issues in the United States and beyond. Most recently, they expressed solidarity with Palestine by altering the lyrics of their song Jesus of Suburbia during a performance in Mexico in November 2024.

Bunkface, formed in 2006, consists of members Sam Baharom, Paan, Youk, and Biak. The band has been a prominent figure in Malaysia’s rock music scene for nearly two decades. Lead vocalist Sam Baharom is also known for his familial ties in the entertainment industry, being the elder brother of award-winning actress Siti Saleha Baharom and the cousin of acclaimed singer-actress Kaka Azraff.

Despite their removal from Green Day’s concert lineup, Bunkface continues to maintain a strong following in Malaysia. However, their international reputation remains clouded by the controversy surrounding their past statements and lyrics.

Green Day’s concert in Kuala Lumpur remains one of the most awaited music events of the year, with thousands of fans expected to attend. The event promises to be an electrifying showcase of the band’s biggest hits and latest performances, reinforcing their legacy as one of the most influential rock bands of all time.