Hasto and Ganjar Commemorate Bung Karno Month Through Ghost in the Cell Screening
In commemoration of Bung Karno Month, the National Cultural Agency (BKN) of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), through Kulturanesia, held a screening of Joko Anwar’s film ‘Ghost in the Cell’ at Metropole XXI, Megaria Complex, Central Jakarta, on Sunday, 7 June 202 $ ext{6}$. The event was attended by the Secretary-General of PDI Perjuangan, Hasto Kristiyanto, and PDIP Central Executive Board Chairman, Ganjar Pranowo.
“During Bung Karno Month, the National Cultural Agency, under the leadership of Bung Once, invites us all to watch a film by Joko Anwar which I find very intelligent,” said Hasto. Hasto noted that the film is laden with sharp social criticism, particularly in depicting resistance against capitalism, imperialism, and the greed that leads to corruption. He expressed high appreciation for Joko Anwar’s courage in embedding critical symbols within the film.
“We highly appreciate that through this film, ‘Ghost in the Cell’, it demonstrates an increase in the level of civilisation in filmmaking that is full of social critique, which PDI Perjuangan cadres must watch to understand the messages being conveyed,” he added. For Hasto, the essence of Bung Karno Month is to re-ground the ideals of independence established during the Proclamator’s youth, namely to realise an Indonesia that is just, prosperous, and sovereign. Through works of art such as this film, the public is reminded to remain faithful to morality and the ethics of statehood.
Echoing Hasto’s sentiments, Ganjar Pranowo viewed this communal screening as an important space for the public to enjoy the works of the nation’s youth while absorbing the social messages conveyed through art. He commended the efforts of the PDIP National Cultural Agency in presenting various cultural activities throughout Bung Karno Month.
“It is interesting. The friends in the Cultural Agency are presenting art spaces that can be enjoyed by the wider public,” he remarked. “Today we are invited to watch an Indonesian film, a cool work by the nation’s children. The satire is quite stinging; although there is horror, the messages are delivered regarding the current condition of the Republic,” Ganjar said.
He expressed hope that through this screening during Bung Karno Month, the nation’s youth can continue to express their intellect and concerns. “The nation’s children can express their entire capacity for thought and their anxieties, and these must be heard by many people. It is fine, it is good, because this is something I believe is positive,” he added.
Ganjar further noted that art and culture play a vital role in sharpening social sensitivity. Through creative works, he believes that both the public and leaders can become more sensitive to the realities occurring around them, allowing criticism to be presented through a more touching and reflective approach.