Andrea Bocelli Concerts in Indonesia to Proceed Amidst Clerical Opposition
The Italian tenor's performances will go ahead despite objections from Indonesia's top Muslim clerical body concerning his past support for Israel.
JAKARTA, Indonesia – Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli's upcoming concerts in Indonesia are set to proceed as scheduled, organizers confirmed Tuesday, despite opposition from the country's influential Muslim clerical body. The Indonesian Ulema Council had demanded the cancellation of performances in Borobudur Temple on October 31 and in Jakarta on November 3.
The council cited Bocelli's history of supporting Israel, including his participation in a 2010 fundraiser for the Israel Defense Forces and a concert in Tel Aviv in 2022. Indonesia, the world's most populous Muslim-majority nation, lacks formal diplomatic ties with Israel and has historically supported the Palestinian cause.
Prajna Murdaya, founder of concert promoter Shoemaker Live, stated that the concerts would move forward, emphasizing their potential benefit to Indonesia's tourism and cultural sectors. Murdaya indicated that the decision was made in consultation with government officials and other stakeholders.
"Maestro Bocelli stands on the side of humanity and wishes to share hope for peace, especially with those who are unable to experience it today," Murdaya said in a statement. Bocelli is expected to dedicate songs during his performances to humanity and world peace, with a particular focus on children and communities affected by conflict. The Andrea Bocelli Foundation, established in 2011, supports education, community development, and assistance programs for vulnerable populations globally.
The organizer also announced a fundraising initiative, pledging 100,000 pairs of shoes for children in the Holy Land and other regions impacted by war. Despite the organizer's assurances, the religious council reaffirmed its opposition on Tuesday. Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim, the council's chair for foreign affairs, stated that the concerts could "hurt the feelings of many Indonesians who strongly support Palestinians."
The Indonesian dates are part of Bocelli's Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour.