Why were George Town Festival promotional videos removed?

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Promotional Videos Removed Amid Accusations of Cultural Exclusivity

The promotional videos for the George Town Festival 2024 (GTF) were removed by the organiser, Kerson Media Global Sdn Bhd, following accusations that they exclusively promoted Chinese and Indian cultures, failing to represent the broader multicultural fabric of Penang. The organiser issued an apology for unintentionally causing offence and stated their commitment to ensuring inclusive representation across all races, genders, ages, and cultures in festival plans and promotions. Despite these assurances, groups such as Persatuan Melayu Pulau Pinang (Pemenang) and Gabungan Persatuan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Melayu Negeri Pulau Pinang (Gagungan) expressed that the teaser video did not reflect Penang's multicultural society, with one leader claiming it seemed to deny the existence of Malay culture in the state.
Accusations of Cultural Imbalance

Concerns were raised by Pemenang and Gagungan, who asserted that the GTF promotional video, themed "Here and Now," failed to showcase Penang's diverse society. Tan Sri Mohd Yussof Latiff, president of both organisations, specifically argued that the video's focus implied a denial of Malay culture's presence within the state. This sentiment was echoed by Penang PAS information chief Muhammad Fawwaz Mohamad Jan, who questioned whether the video was part of an agenda to portray George Town as belonging solely to a "certain race" and called for state government action.
Organiser's Stance on Inclusivity and Representation

Kerson Media Global Sdn Bhd maintained that their festival plans and promotions were designed for inclusive, comprehensive, and balanced representation of all demographics. The company stated that representatives from all ethnic groups were invited to participate in the creation of the teaser video in question. Furthermore, they highlighted that the festival programme includes eight events featuring Malay groups and individuals, such as PEON Performance by Patblas Creative and Lawatan Berpandu: Pengalaman Prangin by Moka Mocha Ink.
Festival Owner's Requirements and Oversight

George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI), the owner of the festival, has established performance benchmarks that mandate at least 50 per cent representation of local Malaysian artistes. For GTF 2024, out of a total of 80 programmes, 53 are being presented by local artistes, encompassing film, theatre, exhibitions, and multi-sensory experiential formats. GTWHI acknowledged the disappointment voiced by local communities and has advised Kerson Media Global to address the issue promptly and enhance the promotion of the festival's local programmes.

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Why were George Town Festival promotional videos removed?

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