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