Villagers in Indonesia’s East Java region are having difficulty coping with a cacophonous trend that has permeated local festivities. Huge towers of loudspeakers, frequently affixed to trucks, blare music loud enough to rock homes and break windows.
These speaker towers, known for playing electronic beats mixed with folk music, are popular at weddings, street parties, and festivals. But the sound has grown so disruptive that many residents say it’s ruining their peace.
“The sound is booming from 1 pm to 3 am. They play loud music and drink alcohol. It’s really disturbing,” said Ahmad Suliyat, a villager in Ngantru.
From Fun to Frustration
Locals call the shaking effect of the noise “sound horeg,” a Javanese term meaning vibration. Videos shared online show broken tiles, cracked walls, and damaged stores. Some people even use apps to record the noise, with levels hitting 130 decibels — louder than a jet engine.
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The problem is so serious that authorities in East Java have introduced new rules. Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa said, “It was made for health and security reasons. The noise level must be regulated so it will not disturb the public peace and order.”
Religious Ruling Declares Loud Noise “Haram”
Earlier this year, a local Islamic council issued a fatwa against excessive noise. The ruling stated that blasting music at weddings or street convoys in ways that disturb others is forbidden under Islamic law.
“The use of a sound system excessively, especially during a wedding convoy, or any other events that cause noise, disturb road users, or make people neglect worshipping, is haram,” the fatwa read.
Health Risks Rise
Experts warn that noise above 85 decibels can damage hearing, while 120 decibels can cause instant harm. Villagers have already reported hearing problems after attending loud events.
In one tragic case, a woman died after reportedly suffering cardiac arrest at a carnival filled with booming loudspeakers. Doctors believe extreme noise exposure played a role.
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The government has now capped speaker towers at 120 decibels. Mobile sound systems for parades or protests are limited to 85 decibels. Authorities also banned them near schools, hospitals, and places of worship.
Divided Opinions in Villages
Despite the damage, many locals defend the tradition. Daini, a 61-year-old resident, pointed to her cracked window and said, “The glass cracked during a sound horror event last year. But that’s OK, people here like loud events.”
Supporters argue that the loudspeaker business supports local jobs. David Stevan Laksamana, who rents out sound towers, said, “In Malang alone, it employs tens of thousands of people. This business is helping the economy.”
But others stay silent out of fear. Some residents say loudspeaker owners intimidate those who complain by blasting music outside their houses for hours. “I never complain to the village head,” Ahmad admitted. “I just keep quiet. I’m afraid of intimidation if I say anything.”
Rules Ignored, Noise Continues
Even after new restrictions, enforcement remains weak. An AFP reporter witnessed loudspeakers blasting above the limits while local officials stood by.
For now, the battle between tradition and peace continues in East Java. While some see the booming sound towers as part of their cultural identity, others suffer from sleepless nights, broken homes, and health risks.
The question remains: can authorities balance cultural celebrations with public safety?
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