UPM Counsellor Says Unregulated Concerts Encourage Hedonism
The counsellor believes that concert promotions in the media reinforce the notion that happiness comes from instant gratification.
By Yap Wan Xiang โ 19 Mar 2025, 04:27 PM
Unregulated concerts may contribute to the spread of hedonistic culture, a lifestyle centred on seeking pleasure and self-indulgence, said a counsellor
Siti Fatimah Abdul Ghani, a counsellor at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), stated, "Concerts are often associated with enjoyment and personal satisfaction. These entertainment events provide temporary feelings of joy and fulfilment.
"They also encourage individuals to continuously seek pleasurable and gratifying experiences to relieve stress.
"Excessive focus on temporary pleasures can trap individuals in a cycle of chasing enjoyment without considering the long-term consequences or deeper values in life," she explained.
Siti Fatimah said that in modern society, entertainment events like concerts, and the promotion of them in the media, can reinforce the idea that happiness comes from instant gratification
"[Activities such as] buying tickets to major events or indulging in luxury experiences can influence our outlook on life, directing our focus towards the pursuit of pleasure.
"If left unchecked, the younger generation may overlook long-term effects on their wellbeing and lose sight of deeper life meaning," she stated.
However, she said that if done right, concerts could have positive impacts, such as fostering creativity, encouraging social connections, and sparking inspiration.
"Therefore, the role of concerts in hedonistic culture depends on an individual's personal values and sense of responsibility," she added.๏ปฟ
She also highlighted the importance of safety in event organisation, stressing the need for thorough emergency management, equipment safety checks, and spectator security
"Careful planning and adherence to legal requirements must be prioritised. The safety of everyone, including artistes, staff, and attendees, should also be thoroughly evaluated.
"Bag checks and controlled entry points are recommended to prevent unwanted incidents. The use of clear signage also helps improve the flow of movement for attendees.
"Medical response teams and emergency preparedness are essential components in the organisation of large-scale events like concerts," she added.
