Indonesian punk rock band Sukatani apologizes for anti-corruption song

Indonesian punk rock band Sukatani faced pressure from authorities to retract their new song “Bayar, Bayar, Bayar” following its online success. The band was compelled to issue an apology by the Indonesian police after the song gained popularity.

The track, released in 2023, takes aim at the issue of corruption within Indonesia’s police force, specifically addressing the acceptance of bribes. The song gained traction when student protesters utilized it as a platform to challenge the policies of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.

The removal of the song and the subsequent apology by Sukatani has triggered discussions about censorship and freedom of expression in Indonesia. In response to this, demonstrators in Bandung, Central Java, displayed a large banner that read “We are with Sukatani” and played the song outside the city’s police headquarters.

Human rights organizations, such as the Indonesian Legal Aid and Human Rights Association, released a statement condemning the alleged coercion by the police. They expressed suspicion that Indonesian National Police members pressured the band into making a public apology for their song.

In reaction to public outcry, the Central Java Police initiated an internal investigation into the officers involved in pressuring Sukatani to retract their song. A police spokesperson mentioned that the officers are currently under investigation by the Internal Affairs Division, with plans to disclose the results of the inquiry to the public upon its completion.

This incident highlights the delicate balance between artistic freedom and potential repercussions from authorities in Indonesia. The situation has shone a light on the need to protect freedom of speech and creative expression, especially in the face of external pressure or interference. Sukatani’s experience serves as a reminder of the challenges that artists may face when addressing sensitive social and political issues through their art.