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| Calls for Justice After Shocking Assault on Armpunk Syndicate Frontman in Johor (Instagram) |
Vocalist of local punk band Armpunk Syndicate was violently assaulted on 12th May 2025 in Johor, Malaysia after allegedly refusing to kiss a group of men's hands as a form of greeting.
The victim, known publicly as Zed, was ambushed outside a public toilet by at least seven individuals, as captured by CCTV footage now circulating on social media.
The video, which lasts just over a minute, was shared on the band’s official Instagram account and shows the group of men waiting to launch a coordinated attack. Zed is seen trying to defend himself before being struck repeatedly, including with a metal rubbish bin.
In the post accompanying the footage, the band did not hold back in condemning the attackers, calling them “cowards” and accusing them of attempted murder.
Watch the Video on Their Instagram Here:
“What kind of culture is cultivated in our artistic spaces? Is this what we’re promoting in our scene? Skinhead Johor?” they wrote, drawing attention to what they believe is an emerging culture of intimidation and violence within certain subcultures.
Since the COVID, many in society have shifted towards more hygienic and distanced forms of greeting, such as the traditional “salam” gesture or a simple handshake. However, this shift has not been universally accepted, and in this case, a refusal to conform to an expected hand-kissing ritual appears to have sparked a brutal response.
Zed’s injuries have not been officially disclosed, but sources close to the band state that he is recovering and remains under observation.
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The band has not issued a further statement regarding his physical condition but has continued to receive overwhelming support from fellow musicians and fans alike.
Moja Husni, vocalist of another prominent local act, Late Night Frequency, voiced his support, writing: “We are with you, Zed. Stay strong, emotionally and physically. Our prayers are for you. May justice be served.”
His words have been echoed by others calling for accountability and a reevaluation of toxic norms within the local music scene.
Disturbingly, this was not the only hostile encounter the band faced. During a recent performance in Johor, the group was subjected to further harassment when unknown individuals reportedly threw urine at them on stage.
This string of attacks has raised alarm over the safety of independent musicians in Malaysia, especially those who challenge conventional norms.
As investigations into the assault continue, many are demanding justice and a broader conversation about the limits of tradition, respect, and the right to personal boundaries — particularly in artistic communities that often pride themselves on freedom of expression and resistance to oppression.
For now, the Malaysian music community rallies behind Zed and Armpunk Syndicate, united in their call: violence has no place in the scene.