The authorities in the Malaysian state of Kelantan have re-imposed a ban on male and female performers mixing together to sing traditional Malay songs.

Leaders of the Islamist PAS party which rules the state say recent performances of the Malay style singing known as dikir barat have become immoral with female singers dressing indecently.

Correspondents say dikir barat involves performers sitting on the floor, clapping their hands and making certain arm gestures in response to a lead singer.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service
 

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