Sukatani Band Apologizes & Withdraws Song 'Pay Pay Pay' that Criticizes Certain Police Officers

Kapanlagi.com - In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the Indonesian music scene, a bold and colorful punk band has emerged, they are Sukatani. Formed in October 2022 in Purbalingga, Central Java, this duo consists of Ovi aka Twister Angel and Al aka Alectroguy. With a burning spirit, they carry themes of farmers' struggles and social critique in every song they create.

Sukatani's music is not just about guitar riffs and booming vocals. They combine punk elements with post-punk and new wave vibes from the 1980s, making each song feel fresh and different. With lyrics often using the Banyumasan dialect, they successfully bring a strong local flavor to their works.

Their debut album, Gelap Gempita, was released in July 2023, and immediately attracted the attention of many listeners. Songs like Sukatani and Pay Pay Pay became highlights, especially due to their critical lyrics addressing social issues and corruption.

However, not everything that shines is good. The song Pay Pay Pay, aimed at criticizing certain police officers, became controversial. On February 20, 2025, Sukatani decided to withdraw the song from all music platforms after it went viral on social media.

1. Apology to the Police

In an official statement, Muhammad Syifa Al Ufti, known as Electroguy, expressed an apology to the Chief of Police and the police institution. "I sincerely apologize to Mr. Chief of Police and the police institution for our song titled 'Pay Pay Pay' which has lyrics about paying the police," he stated.

Electroguy explained that the song was actually intended for certain police officers who violate regulations. "Actually, I created that song for certain police officers who break the rules," he added. This explanation shows that they did not intend to attack the institution as a whole.

2. Decision to Withdraw the Song

After considering the impact caused, Sukatani ultimately decided to withdraw the song from circulation. They also requested their followers and netizens on social media to delete the song from their accounts.

"Therefore, I urge all social media account users who have our song titled 'Pay Pay Pay', with the lyrics about paying the police, to delete and withdraw all videos using our song titled 'Pay Pay Pay'," explained Electroguy. He emphasized that the risks in the future are no longer the responsibility of this band.

3. The Importance of Social Critique in Music

Despite the controversy, Sukatani remains known as a bold and critical punk band. They have succeeded in voicing relevant social issues within society, especially the struggles of farmers and agrarian conflicts in Indonesia.

With a quite impressive debut album and songs that touch on important issues, Sukatani's career journey in the Indonesian music scene is noteworthy. They are a real example of how music can be a medium to convey strong social messages.

Amid the controversy, Sukatani demonstrates that they remain committed to delivering meaningful messages through music. With their engaging songs and apologies, they show a responsible attitude as musicians. KLovers, maybe Sukatani should just make a song like Slank: Polisi Baik Hati.

(kpl/ums)