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September 9, 2006
Movie Stars vs. Islamists - The Indonesian culture wars
Here's a solid must-read by David Gartenstein-Ross detailing the role that the Indonesian entertainment industry is playing in that country's high stakes culture war against forces dedicated to the implementation of sharia. According to Gertenstein-Ross, Indonesia is a critical bellwether in the long war against Islamic extremism because it is the world's most populous Muslim country and has extremely porous borders, and in practice, it has been home to a relatively moderate form of Islam, which is now being challenged. If Indonesian society is transformed into an authoritarian state governed by a strict version of Islamic law, the blow will be felt not only by the country's entertainment industry, but also by all who cherish freedom.
Movie Stars vs. Islamists The Indonesian culture wars. by Daveed Gartenstein-Ross Weekly Standard, 09/18/2006Continue reading, "Movie Stars vs. Islamists" at The Counterterrorism Blog.INDONESIA is currently embroiled in a high-stakes culture war between forces dedicated to Islamic law and more secular-minded citizens devoted to the freedoms and rights enshrined in the country's constitution. While Islamic conservatives have made significant gains, the entertainment industry is emerging as a major arena of opposition to their highly restrictive vision for society.
This opposition is sometimes subtle, sometimes bold. One entertainer who positively courts political controversy is pop singer Inul Daratista, whose suggestive dancing has gotten her banned from several Muslim-dominated towns and earned her the ire of the Indonesian Ulemas Council. Meanwhile, singer Ahmad Dhani of the popular rock band Dewa has released several hit songs whose lyrics aim to undercut the allure of Islamic militancy among Indonesian youth.
One of the most fascinating figures to watch is filmmaker Joko Anwar, who views Indonesian filmmaking in a political context. "We always try to push the envelope," he says, "either politically or on romantic things." They often succeed.
Cross posted from Hyscience
Posted by Richard at September 9, 2006 10:21 PM
