Sending Artist's Work Overseas Is Often A Problem, Moeldoko Promises To Find A Solution

JAKARTA - The Presidential Staff Office (KSP) has responded to complaints from representatives of artists and cultural observers regarding the frequent delays in art items imported or flown abroad. As a result of this problem, the holding of art exhibitions by Indonesian and international artists was hampered.

Presidential Chief of Staff Moeldoko promised that the government would find a solution to the problems related to the delivery of works of art that afflicted the arts and culture realm.

"KSP will try to find solutions to problems presented by artists and culturalists," said Presidential Chief of Staff Moeldoko, quoted in a KSP press release received in Jakarta, Saturday, May 21.

"KSP will ensure that government policies and regulations can run without obstacles in the field. In this case, the delivery of artistic goods is hampered and stuck in the border area, this could be a matter of unscrupulous persons," said Moeldoko.

He said KSP would invite officials from related ministries and institutions to find solutions to the problem of shipping art goods.

"We will summon the director general of the relevant ministries/agencies and we will sit down together to find a solution. With all our might, we will respond to the problems that exist in the public," he said.

In addition, he explained that the government is also trying to increase the space of expression for artists and cultural observers, among others through the revitalization of Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) as a space for expression and appreciation of the nation's artistic creations.

"The government is working on how to make TMII a public area with new colors. The goods are old but their functions are adapted to current needs, one of which is to accommodate the expression space for Indonesian artists and culturalists," he said.

Humanist Butet Kartaredjasa believes KSP will help overcome the obstacles faced by artists and culturalists.

"Of course there are technical problems that we encountered in the field. But we believe that Moeldoko as the Presidential Chief of Staff can help ease the burdens and problems of fellow artists," he said.