Kontroversi Lagu Sukatani, Kritik Oknum Polisi

Summary

The Indonesian band Sukatani has apologized to the National Police (Polri) for their controversial song 'Bayar Bayar Bayar,' which critics argue implies police corruption. The song was withdrawn after backlash, despite Sukatani's claim it was a critique of systemic issues, not individual officers. Many artists, including Steve Itam from Kotak and comedian Panji Pragiwaksono, voiced their support for the band, with human rights advocate Haris Azhar condemning the retraction as censorship. Polri officials stated they are open to constructive criticism, while cultural minister Fadli emphasized the need for a balance between free expression and institutional boundaries.

Takeaways

• 😀 A band called Sukatani, led by Alro Guy and Twister Angel, apologized to the Indonesian National Police (Polri) for their song 'Bayar Bayar Bayar.'
• 😀 The apology was made through their Instagram account after the song was perceived to target the police, despite confirming it was not intended that way.
• 😀 The band withdrew the song from circulation following the backlash, although some celebrities and musicians expressed disappointment over the decision.
• 😀 Notable public figures like Steve Itam, Tantri (vocalist of Kotak), and the Seringai band voiced support for Sukatani and their artistic expression.
• 😀 Comedians Bintang Emon and Panji Pragiwaksono also expressed their support in the comments section of Sukatani's Instagram post.
• 😀 Human rights activist Haris Azhar criticized the band's apology and suggested that the withdrawal of the song was a form of repression of freedom of expression.
• 😀 Haris Azhar raised concerns that Sukatani's apology might have been influenced by intimidation, possibly from the police.
• 😀 Haris also argued that the song's lyrics were still relevant to real-world issues, and that many cases aligned with its message.
• 😀 Polri's spokesperson, Brigadier General Pol Truno Yudo Wisnu Andiko, stated that the police are open to constructive criticism and are continually seeking self-improvement.
• 😀 Minister of Culture Fadli emphasized that while freedom of expression is important, it should be balanced with certain limitations, particularly when criticizing institutions like the police.

Q & A

Why did the band Sukatani apologize to the Indonesian National Police (Polri)?

The band Sukatani apologized because their song 'Bayar Bayar Bayar' was interpreted as criticizing the police, with the lyrics mentioning paying police officers. The apology was directed to the National Police and the Police Chief (Kapolri).

What was the public reaction to the band's apology and the withdrawal of the song?

The public response was mixed. Several celebrities and musicians, including Steve Itam from Kotak and Tantri, supported the band's decision to express their views through music. Human rights activist Haris Azhar criticized the withdrawal of the song as a form of repression, while others defended the band’s freedom of expression.

What did Haris Azhar suggest about the police's involvement in the song's withdrawal?

Haris Azhar suggested that there might have been intimidation behind the decision to withdraw the song. He believed the police or certain individuals within the institution exerted pressure on the band to apologize and retract the song.

How did the spokesperson for Polri respond to the criticism of the police?

Brigadier General Poltruno Yudo Wisnu Andiko, Polri's spokesperson, stated that the police are open to constructive criticism. He emphasized that the criticism from the artistic community is part of the process of introspection and improving the institution. Polri does not oppose criticism but focuses on evaluating and making necessary improvements.

What role did Indonesia's Minister of Culture, Fadli, play in the controversy?

Minister of Culture Fadli weighed in by emphasizing that freedom of expression, especially in criticizing institutions, should be balanced with certain limitations. He stated that the main issue with the song's viral success was its portrayal of police officers in a generalizing way, which could be misunderstood.

What was the main criticism regarding the content of the song 'Bayar Bayar Bayar'?

The main criticism revolved around the song’s lyrics, which were seen as a blanket criticism of police officers, particularly the suggestion that police could be 'paid off.' This was interpreted as a generalization that could tarnish the reputation of the entire police force.

Did Polri completely reject the criticism of the song?

No, Polri did not completely reject the criticism. They acknowledged that constructive criticism is part of their self-reflection and improvement process. The police emphasized that they do not oppose critique but want it to be evaluative and backed by data.

Why was the song 'Bayar Bayar Bayar' withdrawn from circulation?

The song was withdrawn after public pressure and the band's apology. The withdrawal was due to the controversy over the song’s lyrics, which were perceived as offensive to the police, leading to criticism from the authorities.

What was the position of the musicians and comedians who supported the band?

Musicians like Steve Itam and Tantri, along with comedians such as Bintang Emon and Panji Pragiwaksono, expressed their support for the band in the comments section of Sukatani's Instagram post. They defended the band’s right to express themselves through their art and questioned the need for an apology.

What was Haris Azhar's view on the relevancy of the song's message?

Haris Azhar believed the song's message was still highly relevant and reflected ongoing issues, particularly in relation to police corruption and the conduct of certain officers. He felt the song addressed real problems that should not be ignored.