Marsya VoB Is On The List Of 100 Women Influenced By The World

Marsya VoB (Instagram @abiismail)

JAKARTA - Firda Marsya Kurnia, frontperson Voice of Baceprot (VoB) better known as Marsya VoB was selected on the list of 100 influential women this year by the BBC (100 Women 2024).

The vocalist and guitarist for VoB was chosen because of what had been done with his two colleagues, Widi (bass) and Siti (drums).

Citing the BBC's explanation, Marsya is said to be a person who is able to do big things, behind the surrounding norms.

Opposing gender and religious norms is something that makes Firda Marsya Kurnia feel comfortable, as the main vocalist and guitarist in the heavy metal band hijab Voice of Baceprot. Singing in English and Sundanese, one of the most widely spoken languages in Indonesia, the lyrics of this trio song express their frustration with patriarchy," reads the statement from the British media.

Marsya was also highlighted for making history with VoB, as the first Indonesian band to appear at the Glastonbury Festival.

There was a rejection from more conservative Muslims, who did not respond well when the band penetrated heavy metal. However, the band has grown rapidly since they started 10 years ago at their village school in Garut, West Java. This year they appeared in Glastonbury, the first Indonesian band in the history of the music festival for 54 years.

Through Instagram uploads, Marsya also responded to the award. He declared his position as one of the fighters of gender equality.

I was not created just to follow and bow to injustice, fear, or the rules that carry my freedom. I was created to knit dreams, to say 'No' or 'Yes' to whatever I want,' Marsya said, citing the caption of the post, Thursday, December 5.

Marsya is not the only musician on this list. Several other female musicians who are considered influential and on the list include Hadiqa Kiani from Pakistan, Gaby Moreno from Guatemala, Elaha Soroor from Afghanistan, Noella Wiyaala Nwadei from Ghana, and Raye from Great Britain.