KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 30 — The provocative and politically charged Indonesian punk rock duo Sukatani, known as much for their activism as their music, is set to bring their electrifying show to Malaysia for a three-stop mini tour this November.
The balaclava-clad duo will perform in Kuala Lumpur on Nov 28, Kota Kinabalu on Nov 29, and Kuching on Nov 30.
Hailing from Purbalingga, Central Java, Sukatani — comprising guitarist/producer Alectroguy and vocalist Twister Angel — has gained significant momentum since forming in late 2022.
Their name, which translates to “love to farm,” reflects their core mission: creating music that addresses social injustice, particularly the struggles of Indonesian farmers. They are instantly recognisable for their masked attire and have famously distributed vegetables at performances in solidarity with agricultural communities.
The band was catapulted into the national spotlight earlier this year following a major controversy with Indonesian authorities.
In February, they were allegedly made by Indonesian police into removing their song Bayar, Bayar, Bayar (Pay, Pay, Pay), a track aimed at corrupt officials, from streaming platforms.
They were also forced to release a public apology video in which they appeared unmasked.
The fallout was immediate and severe. Twister Angel (real name Novi Citra Indriyati) was subsequently fired from her job as a teacher at an Islamic elementary school.
However, the incident sparked a massive public outcry in support of the band. The Indonesian National Police launched an investigation into six officers for alleged intimidation, and Bayar, Bayar, Bayar became an unofficial anthem at student protests against government policies.
Riding a wave of public support, Sukatani has since performed at major Indonesian music festivals, including Synchronize Fest this month.
Their commitment to their principles remains unwavering; last September, they pulled out of the Pestapora 2025 festival at the last minute to protest its sponsorship by a major mining company, PT Freeport Indonesia.
Their Malaysian tour is being organised in partnership with local DIY record labels, including Tampui Records (Kuala Lumpur), I.Q.32 (Kota Kinabalu), and LivingHell Records (Kuching).
Tickets for the Kuala Lumpur show are priced at RM65 for pre-sale and RM80 at the door, with the venue to be disclosed via email upon registration.
Details for the Kota Kinabalu and Kuching shows are expected to be announced soon.
