Ke$ha -- BANNED From Performing in Malaysia

Ke$ha was set to perform in Malaysia tonight -- but the promoter says government officials rejected her performance application at the last minute.

The concert promoter says Ke$ha agreed to change a ton of elements in the show -- including song lyrics and wardrobe -- but government officials wouldn't budge.

A rep for the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia in Malaysia reportedly said the decision was made for "reasons of religion and culture" ... but wouldn't go into detail.

However, it's safe to say officials were probably concerned with her lyrics about sex and alcohol.

Hopefully Ke$ha doesn't respond by pulling a Zoolander.