Massive Attack band members barred from re-entering Singapore over support for political cause, unfurling of foreign flag at concert
Members of the band Massive Attack have been banned from re-entering Singapore after displaying a Palestinian flag during a concert. Authorities cited violations of the Foreign National Emblems Act and public order regulations.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the strict enforcement of political expression laws in Singapore and the intersection of international activism with local performance regulations.
The band held up a Palestinian flag during a concert on Jul 19. Singapore does not allow the public display of foreign national emblems without a permit or exemption.
A view of Massive Attack performing in Singapore on Jul 29, 2026, and a screenshot from a video showing two band members lifting a Palestinian flag. (Images: CNA readers)
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