Global music sensation Ed Sheeran brought his Mathematics Tour to Malaysia on 24 February, treating fans to a mesmerising performance that will forever be etched in their memories. Beyond the stage, Ed immersed himself in the rich Malaysian culture, capturing local moments that are sure to resonate with fans worldwide.
During his stay in Malaysia, Ed took a step away from the spotlight to experience the authenticity of Kuala Lumpur. Immersing himself in the rich tradition of Batik, Ed had a unique painting session with a select group of lucky fans. The intimate gathering allowed fans to share the creative space with the Grammy-winning artist. Following the Batik painting session, Ed decided to immerse himself further in local traditions by paying a visit to a traditional Malaysian barber nestled in the heart of the city for a refreshing shave.
Adding a sporty twist to his Malaysian adventure, Ed engaged in a friendly round of badminton with none other than Malaysian national badminton player, Chan Peng Soon.
Chan, known for his remarkable achievements in the sport, including an Olympic silver medal in the 2016 Rio Olympics (together with Goh Liu Ying) and numerous international titles, shared the court with Ed, along with local content creators Jin and Joseph.
Chan, a true icon in Malaysian badminton, guided the session, providing insights into the sport and creating unforgettable memories for everyone involved. This decision was not only an appreciation of the local culture but also a nod to the significance of badminton in Malaysia.
Badminton holds a special place in the hearts of Malaysians, fostering a sense of unity and pride. Ed decision to partake in a badminton session symbolizes his acknowledgment of the cultural fabric that binds Malaysians together.
Prior to the show, Ed, along with his bandmates, embraced the festive spirit of the Lunar New Year backstage before his electrifying performance in Malaysia. In a heartwarming cultural exchange, Ed Sheeran, Jin and Joseph participated in a ‘Lou Sang’ session, immersing themselves in the cherished Malaysian tradition. The trio engaged in the ‘Lou Sang’ ritual, a festive tossing of ingredients symbolising prosperity and good luck. Jin and Joseph took the opportunity to explain the significance of the ‘Lou Sang’ session to Ed and his team, also highlighting that it was the last day of the Lunar New Year to partake in this age-old tradition.
The cultural exchange provided Ed and his team with a unique and memorable experience, deepening their connection with Malaysian traditions. The ‘Lou Sang’ session created a joyful atmosphere, fostering camaraderie and spreading good vibes before Ed took the stage to captivate his audience. This cultural exchange not only showcased Ed’s openness to embracing local customs but also demonstrated the universal language of celebration and unity that transcends borders.