“Offensive” LGBT content has been removed from Lady Gaga’s most recent single by Malaysian radio stations. Station chiefs argue that the song contravenes government guidance on appropriate moral content.

Lyrics celebrating ethnic diversity and disabled people are left intact. However, a garbled electronic noise is used to edit out the lines: “No matter gay, straight or bi / lesbian, transgendered life / I’m on the right track, baby.”

“The particular lyrics in ‘Born This Way’ may be considered as offensive when viewed against Malaysia’s social and religious observances,” stated a representative from Malaysia’s AMP Radio Networks. “The issue of being gay, lesbian or [bisexual] is still considered as a ‘taboo’ by general Malaysians.”

The decision was criticised by LGBT rights groups. “We just want the same thing as everyone else: to love, be loved and have our songs played on the radio,” said Pang Khee Teik of Seksualiti Merdeka. He argued that popular media should offer “a platform for marginalized voices and create understanding — not perpetuate ignorance and hate”.

Malaysia has restrictions in place to prevent publicly broadcast songs from violating “good taste or decency”. Media companies face fines of up to 50,000 ringgit (£10,000) for breaking these rules.

Comments are closed.