Khairul Ikhwan D/BI & GB, Medan – Tens of entertainment workers gathered at the Medan Tourism office in North Sumatra province to urge the Medan City Council to revoke the Mayoral decree on the closure of their workplaces during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadhan and Idul Fitri celebrations.

"Don't you respectable gentlemen feel concern to see us starving?" read one of the large banners displayed in front of the office Thursday. Around 60 entertainment workers attended the protest headed by the Leader of the Entertainment Workers' organisation, Eddy Lubis.

Indonesia is the world's largest Muslim country and many leaders see the closure of the entertainment venues as a sign of respect. Many also maintain that the venues are dens of iniquity and illicit activities.

Certain groups, such as the Front for the Defense of Islam (FPI) have stated that they will be ensuring such places are closed, through force if necessary. A variety of, as yet, not entirely clear regulations are set to come into effect in the provinces across Indonesia at the beginning of Ramadhan which most Indonesians will be celebrating on November 27, 2000. In addition to non-Muslims and non-practicing Muslims, workers in the entertainment industry are the most affected by the onset of the fasting month and large demonstrations were held this week in Jakarta.

The protest by entertainment workers in Medan coincided with a dialogue between the Municipality Head of Tourism, Khairul Anwar, and the owners of entertainment venues, including nightclubs, karaoke bars, massage parlors and games venues.

The dialogue was intended to convey and promote understanding of a Decree released by the Mayor of Medan concerning the closure of all entertainment venues. It was signed on November 1, 2000 to come into effect November 26, 2000. However, the meeting was ultimately fruitless and both sides appeared dissatisfied with the overall result.

With the Head of Tourism against their cause, however, the protesters may be fighting a losing battle. "It's unacceptable for night venues to open during Ramadhan and the decision is final," Khairul Anwar told Detik at the conclusion of the dialogue.

It was reported that the protesters were heading to the Municipality Legislative Council to further express their opposition of the Mayor's Decree.