'Dewa has done nothing to insult Islam'

'Dewa has done nothing to insult Islam'

Popular rock group Dewa was reported to the city police on Monday
by a number of Muslim organizations, led by the Islam Defenders
Front (FPI), for using the word Allah in Arabic script on the
cover of its album Laskar Cinta (Soldier of Love). The
organizations accuse Dewa of blasphemy and have demanded a public
apology. The Jakarta Post interviewed residents here on Monday
for their take on the issue.

Fifie, 25, works for a film distribution company in Central
Jakarta. She lives with her family in Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta.

I think the FPI is overreacting a little in dealing with this
controversy. I admit that I do not really understand the reason
behind the FPI's anger, but as far as I understand from the media
coverage, Dewa has done nothing to insult Islam.

I think the FPI just wants to show to the public that they are
true defenders of Islam. But this time they are wrong.

I agreed with them when they raided and shut down bars and
discotheques, because the government seems to be doing nothing to
stop pornography and prostitution. But the FPI had no grounds to
report Dewa to the police.

I hope the police will think clearly when handling the FPI's
complaint because it will set a precedent for similar
controversies.

Aswi, 36, is a teacher at a private school in Pancoran, South
Jakarta. He lives with his wife and children in Cawang, East
Jakarta.

People should have freedom of expression to communicate their
artistic feelings. I am a Muslim and I do not think that Dewa
insulted me, as it is common to use the symbol for God in art.

Dhani and the rest of Dewa are Muslims so there is no reason
that they cannot settle this dispute amicably. They should meet
and discuss their differences.

I do not think the FPI had to report Dewa to the police
because this will only cause more conflict. All they need is a
mediator.
--The Jakarta Post