Guess What? Sutardjianto

To some government officials, rock and rap music may cause serious allergic reactions. But for West Jakarta Mayor H. Sutardjianto, it is entertaining.

"I like rock music although sometimes I can't comprehend the meaning of foreign rock songs. But, I like local rock such as that produced by Gito Rolies," said the mayor last Thursday.

The mayor added that he also loves pop and keroncong music. "Music will make our lives easier and happier," he explained.

According to Sutardjianto, people should learn to appreciate all kinds of music. "They may prefer pop or dangdut music, but it does not mean that we can neglect rock music," he said.

He admitted that rock and rap concerts have caused riots. However, he stressed that it is not the music or musicians which cause the fracas. "The organizers and the public as well should be responsible for any disturbances following rock or rap concerts," he said.

To encourage the development of rock and rap music, the mayor, in cooperation with several rock musicians, will hold a rock and rap concert at Monas Park on Aug. 19, l995 in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of Indonesia's independence.

The concert will involve prominent artists, including outspoken Iwan Fals, whose concerts have often been banned. Rockers Achmad Albar, Renny Djajusman, Nicky Astria and rapper Iwa K will also take part in the show.

"If the government and the public cannot appreciate and support local music, who else will?" asked Sutardjianto somewhat superfluously. (raw)