Rhoma Irama

Rhoma Irama responds

From Media Indonesia

In connection with reports in a number of print media and TV stations about the conflict between Inul Daratista and myself, I would like to clarify several things because these reports, which I think have been distorted, have tended to discredit my reputation. * I have never prohibited the mass media from reporting on Inul, as the right to produce such reports is protected in the prevailing law and regulations on the freedom of the press. * It is true that I have prohibited Inul and television stations from showing my songs being performed in a way that is against decency and might arouse feelings of erotic sensuality. * This so-called conflict has been settled within our organization, the Indonesian Association of Malay Music Artists (PAMMI) and before me. As a representative of the dangdut music community and the affected community, Inul asked to be forgiven and promised that she would immediately stop using erotic style or movements in future performances. Inul has also called on fellow artists to help build the nation's morality. * Limited space and air time have meant that the print and electronic media have reported only part of what really happened in a meeting between Inul and myself, an occasion originally closed to the public.

I hope that with this information the press can help clarify the matter, calm the situation down and prevent the disintegration of this nation, by presenting balanced reports regarding Inul and me.

H. RHOMA IRAMA Jakarta