Kota Kinabalu: Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Vice President David Ong entered the fray over the controversial “Rain Rave” water festival, framing the debate as a choice between Malaysia’s economic survival and “narrow-minded” political posturing.
LDP Vice President David Ong issued a sharp rebuke on Thursday against Umno Youth Chief Datuk Dr Akmal Saleh, who recently targeted the festival on cultural grounds. Ong argued that Akmal’s stance is not only inconsistent but poses a direct threat to the nation’s post-pandemic tourism recovery.
Responding to claims that such festivals are “un-Malaysian,” David challenged the current definition of national culture in a globalised era.
He noted that Malaysia has long successfully integrated foreign-origin events—ranging from Japanese cosplay conventions to Western Halloween celebrations and the Good Vibes Festival—into its social fabric.
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