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Controversy over Andrea Bocelli concerts in Indonesia

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2026-10-24 03:16 UTC → 2026-10-27 02:00 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has called for the cancellation of two upcoming concerts by Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, scheduled for October 31 at Borobudur Temple and November 3 in Jakarta. The MUI argues that hosting the artist is contrary to Indonesian national values and religious guidance due to his past actions perceived as support for Israel, specifically citing a 2010 fundraiser for the Israel Defense Forces and a 2022 concert in Tel Aviv. While the Ministry of Tourism has expressed support for the performances as a means of promoting tourism, officials indicated they would consider the MUI’s position. The Central Java Regional Police Chief stated that his office has not recommended revoking the concert permits, noting that the final authority to issue or revoke such permits rests with the Indonesian National Police’s Intelligence and Security Agency (BIK). Representing 87 Islamic organizations, the MUI has clarified that its opposition is based on humanitarian grounds rather than religion, citing Bocelli’s history of performing for Israeli leaders. In response, cultural figure Panembahan Karyonagoro has suggested the concerts be viewed as a space for “cross-national artistic encounter and cultural diplomacy,” arguing that classical music and Indonesian traditional arts can serve to foster mutual understanding and respect between nations. Political pressure has increased as Syahrul Aidi Ma’azat, Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Body (BKSAP) of the DPR, urged the government to review the concerts. Ma’azat emphasized that policy decisions should be guided by Indonesia’s “historical and constitutional commitment to Palestinian independence” and humanitarian sensitivities.

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