Malaysia star rues bare chest act

A Malaysian pop singer has apologised for causing offence by tearing off his shirt during a televised concert.

Faizal Tahir, 29, threw his shirt into the crowd and revealed a red Superman logo painted on his chest.

Malaysia is a mainly Muslim country and the government has strict guidelines for entertainers, saying they must present a positive and healthy image.

Mr Tahir's record label said he will undertake community service to make up for any offence caused.

The popular singer was performing at a concert in Kuala Lumpur to celebrate the birthday of Malaysian television channel 8TV.

I now realise that taking off one's shirt is a big no Faizal Tahir

Officials from the channel were said to be shocked by the stunt.

Mr Tahir said he was sorry and did not realise that his act would be offensive.

"I did not intend to damage the reputation of 8TV, and sincerely apologise to them and all Malaysians," he told the New Strait Times.

"I now realise that taking off one's shirt is a big no."

Under official rules, performers in Malaysia are expected to be covered from knee to chest and are banned from jumping, shouting or embracing members of the audience.

Other stars have been censured in the past for revealing performances.

In 2006 the organisers of a concert by female US band the Pussycat Dolls were fined for allowing the singers to perform "sexually suggestive" routines.