Kla Project Voices Hope for Concert Halls in Every Region, Immediately Responded by Once Mekel

Kapanlagi.com - Interesting moments occurred during the 36th anniversary concert of Kla Project at Istora Senayan, Jakarta, on Friday (25/10). The vocalist, Katon Bagaskara, expressed his concerns about the government that has yet to fulfill its promise to build concert halls in every region. According to Katon, this promise has lasted a decade without any progress.

"It’s been promised for 10 years, but it still hasn’t happened," said Katon Bagaskara while speaking on stage, indicating his disappointment in front of thousands of attendees celebrating the long journey of Kla Project.

Coincidentally, that night a government representative involved in the cultural field was also present, namely Once Mekel, the former vocalist of Dewa 19 who now sits on Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives. Once's presence was a surprise for Kla Project, especially for Adi Adrian, who did not expect Once to appear at the concert.

"Once is a surprise," said Adi Adrian in response to the arrival of his fellow musician.

1. Deliver Directly to Once

Once Mekel © KapanLagi.com/Muhammad Akrom Sukarya

After the concert, Katon Bagaskara did not miss the opportunity to express his grievances directly to Once Mekel. He hopes that, with Once's current position, the request for concert halls in various regions can receive more serious attention.

"I told Once directly, Adi too, 'Please make this a priority'," said Katon.

Once Mekel seems to respond positively to Katon's aspirations. He acknowledged that the plan to build an art building has indeed become part of the agenda in Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives. Katon's hopes received a glimmer of response from the former vocalist who is now a legislator.

"Oh, yes. That really has to become one of our agendas going forward, hopefully," said Once.

2. Hoping for More Concert Halls

As a musician and a legislative member, Once Mekel shares the same vision as Katon to advance the world of music and culture in Indonesia. He hopes that in the future, there will be more concert halls and art venues that can be built in various regions, even with international standards, so that artists can thrive and earn a decent living from their work.

"So there will be more concert halls, art venues, and cultural buildings that are professional. If possible, even international and present in every province, city, and regency," explained Once Mekel.

"Later, we can have healthy performances and ensure that artists can live from their art and culture," concluded Once Mekel.

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(kpl/far/tdr)