Pornography

From Media Indonesia

Pornography has been much in the news lately. It is a difficult topic because pornography is not well defined. Viewpoints can be vastly different.

Concerning one magazine accused of transgressing the limits of propriety I do not see where the pornographic traits are. I know the magazine has, for a long time, used swimsuits as its characteristic. Of course, the women or models wearing the swimsuits are beautiful and sexy. As a magazine for men, I think it is reasonable that its presentation and photography are artistic in nature and not far-fetched. It means that the models -- usually already famous -- are photographed in swimsuits at swimming pools or at the beach.

What surprises me is why exactly a lot of fuss has been made about that magazine. The model and the photographer have been summoned by the police. Editorial staff will have their turn too. We all know that many magazines and tabloids with vulgar contents are available in the market.

We are in for real surprises in this country. Violations in the political field, incidents of bribery and now, matters of pornography are all unclear. Who is being investigated and who is made suspects by the police? Yet, those who have clearly acted against the law remain untouched.

DESSY NOER THAHER

Jakarta