Whose 'reality' are we talking about?
Whose 'reality' are we talking about?
I am writing in response to the article entitled The morality
police face up to reality by Imam Cahyono (The Jakarta Post Sept.
19). The article is written to protest the objections of
morality groups to a film with a forgettable title. This equally
forgettable film is apparently getting unworthy attention thanks
to the controversy it generates, just like most local news that
has to be scandalous to attract attention and sell newspapers or
TV advertising. It is sad that the writer does not seem to be
aware or even care that Indonesia has been gradually losing its
cultural and religious identity that makes this country special;
partly because of cheap commercial media products such as this.
The writer contested the film is a small part of the reality
of life in Indonesia. Yes, acknowledging reality is another
matter but acknowledging it as normal and acceptable is a
completely different one. Should we treat corruption, violence
and moral decadence, which are now part of daily life as normal
and allow them to continue? Such opinions encourage already
misguided youths further.
Where is the respect for the sentiments of the majority?
Indulging in displays of intimate and violent acts is forbidden
by both religious and social etiquette. So are the provocative
and erotic dance moves of dangdut singers.
Whoever feels that such behavior is OK should limit their
activities within the boundaries of their own clubs.
I have a young daughter and have serious concerns about the
moral and mental attitudes of today's youth, which are reflected
in many of the low quality TV shows and the way they are
embraced.
Yes, this is the reality, but everyone with a sound social
conscience should stand up to correct this reality without
bickering about which films are allowed and which films are
not.
As the writer rightly pointed out, all unscrupulous practices
should be condemned as (Muslim cleric) Abdullah "A'a Gym"
Gymnastiar has been constantly doing. However, we will continue
to lose the battle if the individuals concerned remain blind.
S. W. TJAHJONO, Jakarta