Larger-than-life audio equipment used in celebrations across Indonesia causes controversy, prompting a religious decree
In the vibrant streets of East and Central Java, a unique form of entertainment has been gaining popularity over the past few years - 'Sound Horeg'. Originating in Malang, East Java, in 2014, this street entertainment has been a source of intrigue, as well as controversy, due to its loud volumes and potential health risks.
'Sound Horeg' shows are characterised by large speaker towers mounted on trucks, blasting bass-heavy music that can shake nearby windows. Videos of these shows on social media have captured the energy and excitement they generate. However, the loud volumes often surpass 120 decibels, posing public health hazards such as hearing damage and noise pollution.
The growth of 'Sound Horeg' entertainment has been steady since its inception in 2014. According to David Stefan, owner of Blizzard Audio in Malang, there are approximately 1,200 businesses catering to the demand for 'Sound Horeg', with 500 supplying large capacity speakers.
However, this growth has not been without controversy. A woman in Lumajang Regency died after watching a 'Sound Horeg' show in early August, causing debate about the entertainment. Prior to Indonesia's August 17 Independence Day, officials and police are considering curbing the loud speaker volumes of 'Sound Horeg' shows to prevent such incidents in the future.
The debate about 'Sound Horeg' focuses on its cultural significance versus its negative impact. Supporters see it as a form of traditional entertainment and local cultural expression. On the other hand, critics, including religious authorities like the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), classify 'Sound Horeg' as 'haram' (forbidden) when it causes disturbance to others. The MUI issued a fatwa particularly targeting the East Java region, emphasizing it is only forbidden under conditions where it disrupts public welfare and peace.
There is concern that uncontrolled 'Sound Horeg' performances may also incite social conflicts if not properly regulated. The tension between preserving local cultural practices and protecting community health and social harmony is palpable in the debates surrounding 'Sound Horeg'.
In conclusion, the core controversies revolve around health and social disruptions caused by extremely loud volume levels, religious and moral opposition framing 'Sound Horeg' as 'haram' if it disturbs others, cultural defenders highlighting its role in traditional music and entertainment, and calls for balanced, inclusive responses to manage its impact fairly. As Indonesia navigates this cultural and social landscape, it will be interesting to see how 'Sound Horeg' evolves and how the debates surrounding it continue to unfold.
- The rising popularity of 'Sound Horeg' in East and Central Java has sparked substantial discussions about the intersection of entertainment and business, with an estimated 1,200 related businesses in Malang.
- Despite the entertainment aspect, the loud volumes of 'Sound Horeg' shows have sparked concerns in the realm of health and wellness, given that over 120 decibels can pose health hazards such as hearing damage and noise pollution.
- The growth of 'Sound Horeg' has also had significant implications for real-estate markets, with potential concerns about potential property damage from the vibrations caused by the bass-heavy music.
- In discussions concerning the cultural impact of 'Sound Horeg', experts may need to consider its ramifications in the scientific and medical-conditions arena, such as examining its effects on the psychology of its audience, particularly in relation to excitement and stress levels.
- Social media's role in circulating videos of 'Sound Horeg' shows has highlighted the power of online platforms as vehicles for promoting businesses and driving investment in industries like entertainment, as well as the potential drawbacks in creating noise pollution within residential areas.
- The debate around 'Sound Horeg' raises substantial questions about the balance between cultural preservation and social responsibility, particularly in relation to financing and investing in the entertainment industry while addressing the potential health and social concerns it presents.
- Ultimately, the future of 'Sound Horeg' and its associated business ventures will hinge on the ability of policymakers, the entertainment industry, and the public to find a secure balance between celebrating its cultural significance, mitigating its health risks, and promoting responsible practices on social media for a harmonious coexistence.
