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View all search resultsMUI urges government to regulate horeg sound systems after haram fatwa
Videos circulating on social media show residents complaining of shattered windows and damaged roofs, caused by the intense vibrations from horeg parades passing near their homes.
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Muzahidin, who runs “horeg” sound system Brewog Studio in Blitar, says the popularity of “horeg” has been boosted by social media and that it also serves as a way for villagers to entertain themselves. (JP/Yohana Belinda)
T
he Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged the government to regulate the use of horeg sound systems, following a recent fatwa by its East Java branch that declared the controversial practice haram (forbidden) under certain conditions.
Horeg, which means “to move” or “vibrate” in Javanese, refers to the practice of stacking large speakers to produce extremely loud music with intense bass that can literally shake walls, shatter windows and even bring down roofs.
Asrorun Niam, Head of MUI’s Fatwa Division, has called on the government to issue a regulation to control the use of horeg sound systems, which he says disrupt public peace and well-being.
“Numerous residents have reported serious disturbances caused by these sound systems, including damage to their homes and shattered windows due to the thunderous music. The noise levels from horeg setups also exceed the thresholds recommended by health experts.” Asrorun said over the weekend, as quoted by Kompas.com.
“Don’t let this practice continue unchecked simply for economic reasons, especially when so many people are being harmed by it,” he added.
Read also: Ministry plans to give IP rights for ‘horeg’ sound system
Originating in parts of East Java, horeg has become a common form of entertainment during village events, religious gatherings, weddings and other celebrations since at least the early 2000s.
