DNA Demands Awakening Music, Reveals Loss After Maher Zain Performed Without Coordination

Kapanlagi.com - PT Digital Network Aestetik (DNA) has officially filed a lawsuit against Awakening Music, a UK-based label that represents Muslim musicians worldwide such as Maher Zain, Raef, and Harris J. This lawsuit was triggered by alleged ethical violations and breaches of commitment in a strategic partnership that has lasted for more than 14 years.

DNA has been known as the main partner of Awakening Music in Indonesia. They have brought Maher Zain to various major concerts since 2010, while also popularizing dakwah music and Islamic content, such as the film Insya Allah Ada Jalan and Journey of Backpackers. However, everything changed after the incident of Maher Zain's cancellation to perform at the 100 Years of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) event on February 7, 2023.

Rina Novita, the founder of DNA, revealed that Awakening Music suddenly stated that Maher Zain could not attend due to illness, without providing any medical evidence or documentation. DNA also struggled to clarify to the committee. However, shocking facts emerged shortly thereafter:

• On February 6, 2023, a major earthquake occurred in Turkey.

• On February 7, 2023, Maher Zain was absent from the NU event in Sidoarjo.

• However, on February 8, 2023, just a day after the NU event, Maher Zain appeared active on Instagram in good health, inviting the public to help the earthquake victims in Turkey.

"Maher Zain appeared healthy, everyone was angry with me, I was accused of taking a down payment, it hurt a lot," said Rina when met at her office not long ago.

1. Peak of Disappointment

She added that the trust from the committee and strategic partners in DNA was immediately shaken by the incident. Recovery efforts were made. DNA plans to hold a Maher Zain concert in August 2024. However, that plan failed due to an unprofessional event organizer and investors.

After finding a replacement investor, Awakening Music caused further obstacles by not providing a definite schedule for the Maher Zain concert in 2025. Even communication between DNA and Awakening and Sharif Banna was completely ignored.

The most disappointing thing was that Maher Zain suddenly performed at a concert for one of the banks without any notification, communication, or contract termination letter with DNA. Meanwhile, DNA felt they had been instrumental in building Maher Zain's name in the country since 2011.

"I have proof of collaboration such as accounts and names written in the Awakening Music book," Rina stated.

2. Taking Legal Action

© KapanLagi.com/Mathias Purwanto

The attorney for DNA, Hamzah Fansyuri, emphasized that the actions of Awakening Music are very detrimental both materially and immaterially.

"Maher Zain should be exclusive with DNA. There is material and immaterial loss, DNA's reputation has failed," he said.

As a result of the losses incurred, DNA has chosen to take legal action. As part of this legal effort, DNA urges all promoters, event organizers, and event hosts in Indonesia not to cooperate with artists under Awakening Music during the legal process.

3. Not a Momentary Emotion

© KapanLagi.com/Mathias Purwanto

This is to prevent problematic contracts that could lead to further legal risks. "This step is not a momentary emotion. It is our responsibility towards the profession, the promotion of Islam, and work ethics," said Rina.

She emphasized that DNA remains committed to maintaining the credibility of the Islamic entertainment industry to ensure it continues to be dignified and professional in Indonesia.

(kpl/pur/ums)