Letters: Prohibition of infotainment?

Gossip cannot be banned. It happens around us every day. It is a negative trait of the human character. Many people thrive on gossip and if they do not know about something, I am sure that they will do everything possible to find out.

Celebrities all over the world are in the public eye. If one does not wish to be the centre of attention, one should refrain from becoming a celebrity. Gossip comes with the job - as we say.

To prohibit infotainment is violating freedom of the press and of expression. Those who do not like infotainment should switch off their TV or move to another channel. Gossip about celebrities can be found in tabloid magazines sold all over the place, sidewalks, bookshops, magazine vendors in the streets, etc.

Should these magazines be taken off the shelves too and should the government close down publishing companies? This would certainly cause massive unemployment! With due respect to the ulema, they should realize that the majority of the people love infotainment programs, it cheers them up, just as they love watching soap operas and Indonesian movies.

Gossip is part of the lives that celebrities lead. Look at E! channel, TVE and many other international TV channels with in-depth discussions on the lives of Hollywood movie stars and top athletes. Why do the ulema watch infotainment programs? They should focus on religious matters and leave the people to enjoy their favorite TV programs.

Lynna van der Zee-Oehmke
Bogor, West Java