Sex and violence

Blatant sex and violence in films and on television has long been the subject of recurring debate among Indonesians. Although the link between televised violence and actual violence in society has never been proven -- some people believe that no such a link exists -- many people worry that the visual impact of television can leave such a strong impression that it shapes people's behavior. This explains the recurring expressions of disapproval voiced in the past.

So there is really not much new in the recent exchange of ideas among Indonesia's six television networks on the subject of sex and violence. What is new, however, is that this time all six television stations agreed to limit airing programs that lean excessively on sex and violence. An agreement that is long overdue. Aside from the possible negative psychological impact on individuals, most of the films now on television are of such inferior taste and quality that they counteract all efforts being made to educate the public.

The public, and parents of young children in particular, can only wait and hope that viewers will be presented with not only less vulgar sex and violence, but with better quality programing than aired so far. Station managers and programming directors are, no doubt, as aware as the rest of us of the risks to which they are exposing people, especially the very young and the impressionable. The fact is, however, television stations need money to stay in business and if airing cheap but popular programs helps, then little will be done to improve programming.

It is an old problem, and finding a way out of it is easier said than done. The primary goal is to gradually raise the viewing tastes of the public and filmmakers to such heights that quality films are appreciated enough to sustain and nurture a healthy film industry. With sufficient appreciation for tasteful, quality films, the preference for base sex and violence will naturally be pushed into the background. Indonesia, moreover, provides a wealth of material for good filmmakers to produce high-quality films.

The question is one of priorities. The long-term option is to educate the public and let most of the existing film industry, the theaters and television stations languish. The short-term option is to give the public what it wants, pushing education to rollick in the back row, and allow filmmakers and television stations to flourish with the hope they will rehabilitate themselves.

How the agreement among the six television networks will work in practice is uncertain. However, the accord to curb sex and violence on our television screens may provide a welcome chance for the best Indonesian filmmakers to produce works that are at least on a par with China's great contemporary directors and producers. The talent exists among the young filmmakers we have at present, there just needs to be a market.