Kelantan local government, housing, health and environment committee chairman Hilmi Abdullah confirmed that the fine, under Section 6 of the Entertainment and Places of Entertainment Control Enactment 1998, was made to the Tanah Merah district council today.

He also said the organisers had sent an apology letter to both the state government and the local authorities for the violation.

“They (the organisers) have also signed an undertaking with the local council, agreeing to consult with the authorities before holding any future events,” he was quoted as saying in an Utusan Malaysia report.

Hilmi added that starting from Jan 1, 2025, the fine would increase to RM50,000 after the state assembly passed an updated Entertainment and Places of Entertainment Control Enactment, which will introduce stricter regulations and licensing.

He urged individuals or companies planning to organise entertainment events to submit their applications in advance to facilitate the review process and avoid any violation.

It was previously reported that the organisers had not obtained the necessary permit for the event.

The event, held last Saturday at the hall of a Chinese vernacular school, drew public criticism after photos of the performance went viral.