Newport Apologizes for Viral Video at The Sounds Project, Acknowledges Weak Oversight

The Sounds Project (Instagram @thesoundsproject)

JAKARTA - Social media has recently been rocked by a video clip that recorded the incident at the Newport booth at the The Sounds Project music festival, Sunday, August 9. In response to the commotion that occurred, Newport finally spoke up and delivered an official apology to the public.

The incident became a spotlight because it was considered not in accordance with religious values and norms that apply in society. In response to this, Newport emphasized that the activity in the viral video was not part of the concept of promotion or program that they designed.

"Newport needs to clarify that the activity is not a program, promotional concept, challenge, or direction that is made or planned by Newport. The activity appears spontaneously from visitors who are at the location," said Handoko Sasongko, Director of Newport in an official statement received by VOI, Tuesday, August 11.

The management regrets that the situation was not handled quickly while on the field. Newport admitted that there was a gap in supervision, so that visitors could take over the microphone from the MC and take actions that triggered controversy.

"We regret the weakness in supervision of visitors who can take over the mic from the MC on the field, so that actions that are not in accordance with religious values, beliefs, culture and customs can occur," he continued.

As a form of responsibility, Newport expressed his deep apology, especially to Muslims and religious leaders who felt hurt by the incident. They emphasized that they respected the religious values and sensitivities in Indonesian society.

Not only apologizing, Newport has also taken firm steps internally. Personnel on duty during the incident have been given action, and operational procedures in the field will be tightened.

"This incident is a stern warning and a material for deep reflection for us to immediately formulate stricter operational standards (strict guidelines)," said Handoko.

Management is fully committed to making religious values, customs, and community ethics the main foundation in every future activity. Newport ensures that similar incidents will not be repeated in the future.

"Once again, we express our deepest apologies with humility," the statement concluded.