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