Entertainment and Ramadhan
Every time the Muslim fasting month of Ramadhan approaches, there are pros and cons regarding the need to close entertainment venues during this month. Therefore, those in favor and against the closure of nightspots during the fasting month should consider the following in order that a win-win solution may be arrived at and the result incorporated in a stipulation of the regional administration; 1. There must be a clear definition of what entertainment may be categorized as being (sexually) immoral and forbidden in Islam. Logically, these activities must not be carried out any time at all and must be eradicated for good. 2. If, when performing our religious service of fasting, we, Muslims, feel disturbed and tempted, wouldn't it be better to have all restaurants, cafes and food stalls closed down and all TV programs and entertainment stopped? (I wonder how foreign TV broadcasts can be stopped.) 3. Is it fair and humane that our fasting activities cause other people's loss of livelihood for a month while, in fact, they work in places legally recognized by the government. Don't we sound too selfish and too self-pathetic? 4. Performing a religious service is a very personal activity. So, we have no right to encourage other people to imitate us. Similarly, we have no right to prohibit other people from doing things not in line with our deeds as long as they do not violate the law.
Therefore, the Indonesian Council of Ulema (MUI) and the regional administration must give a clear definition about the matters referred to above so that relevant stipulations regulating these matters may be laid down and enforced consistently.
Last but not least, allow me to call on Islamic figures and leaders of Islamic mass organizations, MUI in particular, to enlighten fellow Muslims so that they will not focus on ceremonial things only. Let's perform our religious service of fasting without burdening other people as otherwise the value of our sincerity in performing this religious service will lessen.
H. WISDARMANTO GS
Jakarta