Last week Playboy Indonesia has finally launched its first edition—featuring model Andhara Early; interview with the Nobel Prize contender Pramoedya Ananta Toer; and also a study of East Timor since its independence. No nudity, as the publisher has always said. I haven’t—nor will I—read it, but if it was true, then there is nothing to worry about from the magazine. Nevertheless, there are at least three different points of view in response to this publication:

1. Those who loathe the magazine for its name—mostly come from the hardline factions. Muhammad Alawi Usman, the spoke person of the Islamic Defenders Front says, “If within a week they are still active and sell the magazine, we will take physical action. Playboy is not suitable for reading because its contents degrade women.”

Another leader, Tubagus Muhamad Sidik, told Reuters, “Even if it had no pictures of women in it, we would still protest it because of the name,” he said. “If they don’t withdraw it then we will act in our own way, the forceful way. Our crew will clearly hound the editors.”

2. Those who do not mind the publication—as long as it is tailored to local taste, which forbids nudity in the media. This group has been keeping low profile except for noting that the government has no right whatsoever to ban any magazines unless they violated the law. It is a democratic country they live in, anyways.

3. Those who liked Playboy for the contents they usually see in other places. Of course, the local version has disappointed them. Jakarta’s 68H radio station reported a buyer said, “It’s sinful to read Playboy if there’s no nudity!”

“It’s a scandal! There’s no nude women in the magazine. I think we have been deceived,” said another.
With the price of Rp 39,000, the magazine is a lot more expensive than others. It is sealed in order to prevent youngsters from taking a glance at its content. However, protestors are still complaining because it is publicly sold at kiosks and hawkers on the street, making it easier for anyone to get access to it. The publisher had previously promised to distribute it only at appointed shops.

An outsider like me could only wait and see how long it will last: the magazine and the brouhaha it has caused. So far, let’s admit that it is a let down—either for those who hate it or the supporters. Nobody would buy Playboy with no nudity. But with nudity in it, the publisher should be ready for more protests. Makes me wonder, is it worth it at all?

Meanwhile, last Sunday the Playboy creator Hugh Hefner celebrated his 80th birthday. Here it is Paris Hilton singing “Happy Birthday” to him. I would say it’s um interesting—but probably not safe for office viewing.


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