SINGAPORE, March 11 -- Singapore's Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong has denied that his government had provided subsidies to secure Lady Gaga's upcoming concerts in the city-state this year.

CNA cited him responding to a query from MP Sitoh Yih Pin (PAP-Potong Pasir) saying that the concerts were arranged directly by concert venue Kallang Alive Sport Management (KASM).

"They negotiated directly with the artist and her team, including Live Nation," he was quoted saying.

"No government grants were given to secure this event. This was a purely commercial arrangement between the artist and the venue."

Tong reportedly said KASM actively seeks high-profile events to be hosted at the Sports Hub while maintaining a balance...