TIM's status

TIM's status

From Media Indonesia

With reference to Media Indonesia's report of Feb. 13 Change
of TIM needs to be criticized, as an artist, I feel very
concerned about Taman Ismail Marzuki (TIM) arts center's change
of status. A hotel and a mall is to be built on the site.

Jakarta governor in the 1970s, Ali Sadikin, has clearly
delineated TIM's function as an arts center. With the current
changes, it is not possible any longer to enjoy arts performances
amid the noise of market activities.

I am further saddened because the Indonesian Arts Foundation
does not allow a number of arts groups to perform at TIM. The
groups like to voice criticism and present themes of discontent.
But such themes at TIM are usually presented in a different form.
They may only be understood by artists who are intellectuals and
not easily provoked.

I put my hopes in the Jakarta Arts Institute to try to restore
TIM's image as it was at the time of its establishment. Do not
let the artists' arena turn into a business center which
adversely affects arts performances.

KABUL SANTOSO

Tangerang, West Java