Purwakarta Regent Clarifies Controversial Song to Home Affairs Inspectorate General

The Inspectorate General of the Ministry of Home Affairs has clarified Purwakarta Regent Saepul Bahri Binzein regarding the uproar caused by the song ‘Lalaki Langit, Lalanang Bejat’ which involved him. Head of the Ministry of Home Affairs Information Centre, Benni Irwan, explained that the Purwakarta Regent complied with the Inspectorate General’s invitation for clarification and was present at the Inspectorate General’s office at 09.00 WIB today. ‘The Regent arrived at 09.00, as invited, and was received by the Inspector General,’ Benni said in Jakarta on Friday. Benni stated that the clarification process lasted until 17.00 WIB, guided by a team formed by the Ministry’s Inspectorate General, consisting of the Secretary of the Inspectorate General, the Special Inspector, the Regional Inspector IV, and two Principal Supervisors, supported by an administrative team. This step is part of implementing the function of guidance and supervision over the administration of regional government. During the approximately eight-hour process, the examining team posed 60 questions focusing on two main substances: the process of creating the song and its publication. ‘What was the background to the creation of the song, what was its purpose, what was its intent, who was targeted by the song, and so forth. Likewise with its publication,’ he said. At the end of the clarification process, Benni continued, the Purugwakarta Regent expressed regret for his actions. ‘The Purwakarta Regent stated that he realises he made a mistake, regrets what he has done, and promises not to repeat it, accompanied by an apology to all parties,’ Benni said. Subsequently, the Ministry’s Inspectorate General will compile a report on the results of the clarification containing the entire examination process to be submitted to the Minister of Home Affairs. In addition, the Inspectorate General will also submit recommendations for sanctions as material for the Minister’s consideration in making a decision. For information, the song ‘Lalaki Langit, Lalanang Bejat’ created by Purwakarta Regent Saepul Bahri Binzein drew public attention because its lyrics were deemed to contain content offensive to women. The controversy over the song has also drawn scrutiny from various parties, including members of the House of Representatives.