MOTAC Slams Misinformation Over Rain Rave Labour Day Festival

23 April 2026

KUALA LUMPUR: The upcoming World Labour Day Celebration with the Rain Rave Water Music Festival at Bukit Bintang from 30 April to 2 May 2026, is a meticulously planned annual tourism event under strict supervision.

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Tiong King Sing has strongly defended stating the festival aligns with the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, aimed at boosting Kuala Lumpur's economy, advancing the tourism sector, supporting small and medium enterprises, and fortifying the local tourism ecosystem.

He condemned "inflammatory and defamatory" social media posts on Threads that have distorted the event's nature and purpose, creating misleading narratives and sowing public confusion.

"The public has the right to voice opinions, but discussions must be fact-based, not driven by incitement, slander, or emotional manipulation that undermines social harmony," he said.

Drawing parallels with Thailand's Songkran Festival, which has long attracted tourists and generated significant economic returns, with many Malaysians participating annually, Tiong highlighted the positive impacts on visitor numbers and local commerce.

The minister clarified that the moderate-scale, well-structured event offers a positive, inclusive platform for local and international attendees to unwind during Labour Day, with fully voluntary participation and no compulsion or requirements for swimwear or provocative attire.

"Efforts to stir controversy or twist facts only hinder rational debate and disrupt economic recovery and social stability," he warned, urging respect for individual choices in Malaysia's multicultural society.

Tiong stressed the role of tourism in sustaining livelihoods, stimulating spending, and building industry resilience amid global economic uncertainty.

He called on all parties to prioritise progress over baseless controversies, affirming the government's commitment to balancing growth with social responsibility.