Bali bombsite monument

Bali bombsite monument

From Bali Post

I read with interest the article by Dr. Sumadi Kertonegoro about his idea of erecting a monument, Kala Cakra (the Wheel of Time), at Legian, Kuta, the site of the Bali bomb blasts, published in Bali Post on Nov. 24, 2002. I would like to make some comments on his concept.

Sumadi's idea is based on what happened at Legian when the bomb blasts took place. The nightlife at that particular place was marked by the thunderous sound of music emanating from Sari Club and other such establishments. Alas, unimaginably, there was a counternoise (much more powerful), which destroyed everything close to the explosive device, instantly stopping all activities. The bomb blasts shocked the community and the neighborhood became sick and traumatized.

Sumadi is right when he tries to neutralize the trauma of the people by applying sound therapy. He suggests that a monument be erected at the site of the tragedy. The monument would contain three stages and produce sounds to remind the community of the tragedy, yet at the same time calm them down.

The first stage of the monument should contain reliefs depicting life at Sari Club, the tragic situation that prevailed during the blasts, and the great and sacred purifying ritual, the Tawur Agung Pamarisudha Karipubhaya.

The second stage shows a rotating construction, where some dancing dolls/figures are set in place, and one of the dolls strikes a big gong indicating the hour at that moment. The sound and echo of the gong are to serve as psychological therapy for the surrounding community.

A giant clock is to be affixed to the third stage in such a way that it can be observed from a distance. This will always remind people of the power of "Time", as no one under the sun can escape it.

Furthermore, the Kala Cakra symbol is set on the very tip of the monument. We should always be aware that Time never stops and waits for nobody.

May the dream of Dr. Sumadi come true.

I NYOMAN MUDRA, Karangasem, Bali