An opinion published Thursday urges Indonesians to boycott Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli’s scheduled performance at Borobudur on 31 October. A second concert is planned in Jakarta on 3 November.
Government backing draws criticism
The appeal criticizes state-linked support for the event. BNI is offering discounted tickets and installment plans, while three ministries have joined the preparations. Officials have projected economic benefits of $44 million. The top ticket tier is listed at Rp17.5 million, more than $1,000, a price the commentator says turns a sacred Buddhist site into an exclusive stage.
Artist’s public record at center of call
The writer points to Bocelli’s past appearances and associations as reasons for opposition. He performed in Israel at celebrations linked to President Shimon Peres in 2008; he appeared in a 2020 Dubai concert with Israeli singers after agreements normalising ties; and more than 20,000 attended his 2022 Tel Aviv performance, where Benjamin Netanyahu was present. The commentary also notes that Jordanian activists have cited a 2010 fundraiser for Friends of the Israel Defense Forces.
Bocelli later wrote to a released Israeli hostage and hosted another at his Miami home, gestures the writer acknowledges as acts of kindness. The commentary argues that concern for Israeli captives should be accompanied by concern for Palestinian civilians.
Appeal to audiences and institutions
The writer urges ticket-holders to seek refunds, calls on BNI and SMBC Indonesia to reconsider their role, and asks people to direct money saved to aid for Gaza. Activists in Jordan have also opposed Bocelli’s planned 27 November performance at Petra, citing his earlier appearances in Israel and meetings with Israeli leaders.
Indonesia has no diplomatic relations with Israel. The commentary frames the concert as a test of whether the country’s stated support for Palestine is reflected in public choices. An empty venue, the writer argues, would send a political message.
