Transcript from the Television Program Star 7

aired June 18, 2005 on Indonesia's TV 7 Network

 

Presenter:  The music group Dewa is once again making headlines.  This time not because of conflict, but because its members have just received an award from Libforall Foundation—an American organization that actively promotes religious tolerance and justice throughout the world.

The award was presented to Dewa yesterday morning in the headquarters of the Nahdlatul Ulama, by Libforall Foundation’s representative Mr. Holland.  The award constitutes an acknowledgment by the global community of Dewa’s contribution to developing world peace and religious tolerance.  The award’s appropriateness is demonstrated by the fact that the group’s vocalist, Once—a non-Muslim—feels perfectly comfortable singing Dewa’s songs, which are filled with Islamic Sufi values.

Holland: “I [know and] consider the [other] members of Dewa to be true and sincere Muslims, while Once is a devoted Christian.  Their message is profoundly spiritual, and it would be appropriate to bring their music to the attention of people in the West, whether or not there had ever been a problem with FPI [the radical Islamist group Front for the Defense of Islam].”

Dhani acknowledged having been visited by Mr. Holland back when he was making the album Laskar Cinta, but at the time Dhani was unaware that one day he would receive an award for the project.

Dhani:  “I’ve lately come to realize that this foundation has a powerful strategy to promote tolerance and respect for every spiritual faith.”

Presenter:  According to Dhani, this award was given precisely because Dhani and Dewa themselves respect others’ views.  Dhani himself never forces others to adopt his opinions.

Dhani:  “Mr. Holland has his view [that Dewa’s music is profoundly spiritual and Islamic], while some others consider our lyrics to be heretical [and un-Islamic].”

Presenter:  In the near future, Dhani plans to compose a song entitled Laskar Cinta [The Warriors of Love], which deals with the subject of Truth.

Dhani:  “Our new album will have a song called Laskar Cinta.  That was the title of our last album, but our next one will actually have a song by that name, which elaborates on this subject.  I believe the “Truth” dwells the hearts of those who [love and] are free of hatred.  In my opinion, the reason people hate those who belong to a different faith or group, is because their own hearts are possessed by the devil.  Satan dwells in the hearts of those who bear hatred towards other people or groups.”

Presenter:  Dhani confirmed that [despite recent attacks by radical Islamists] he will keep on composing great songs, for Dewa and those who love his music.

 

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