PLAYBOY: a bit of sweet history

PLAYBOY Indonesia was first published on April 2006. Early before the launch of the magazine, it already gains massive protest although many still support to make the dream happen.

 At the time of the launch, it gained another massive protest that lead to destruction of the head office. The office was evicted by the building management due to the damages from the protesters, and rumor has it (we created it) that the office was relocated to Bali. Though that part was also true, we had this office down at Seminyak area, but the main operations were still in Jakarta.

It didn’t stop there. The crews must face police authority, held as witnesses and suspects for creating and distributing pornography to the public. Three of the crew members got on trial. It was a huge phenomenon that a magazine like Playboy launches in this country.

But it was a jolly ride, having to work with all of those circumstances, with a solid team, and with laughter and all the fun of life.This was the cover of the premiere issue.

Cover: Andhara Early; Foto: Okke Gania

 

There were many coverage from national and international media. Some discussed the disappointments from expecting readers, some discussed how the magazine enrages the society. Some also supporting the magazine and creativity that blew your heart.

But, the Playboy issue opened up a new matter in this country. The Pornography Act, which basically rule people actions, whether in society and or mass media that can be described as porn action. This act gained a bigger controversy than what created by the magazine itself, many declined this act. 

As for this time, the country is still facing its morality. Whether this country choose to be considered as this morally graceful but being hypocrite of all this matter. Or, face that we are already in the global community, and we should and we are suppose to open minded, grab reality and respect all the diversity that the country has.