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EMARANG: The backlash against Central Java Governor Bibit Waluyo, following his recent statement criticizing Jathilan or Jaran Kepang (bamboo horse dance) at an international event, continues.

A traditional dance group protested in front of Semarang City Hall in Central Java on Wednesday, demanding Governor Bibit Waluyo apologize for calling the Jaran Kepang the world’s worst art form.

The controversial remark was made by the governor during the opening of the 14th Merapi and Borobudur Senior Amateur Golf Tournament in Magelang, Central Java on Sunday. The governor clarified the statement a day later saying he had intended to criticize the group that performed the dance, not the dance itself.

In front of the city hall, Kridho Turonggo dance group performed the native dance, with performers carrying colorful hobby-horses and dancing energetically to gamelan music.

Protest coordinator Andang Prasetyo said the dance was part of their cultural heritage and needed to be preserved.

Jaran Kepang, which is also known as Kuda Lumping in West Java and Sang Hyang Jaran in Bali, is performed at special events, such as circumcision ceremonies and weddings.

On most occasions, the dance incorporates “magic”, with “possessed” performers eating glass and walking on flaming coals.