Komunitas Utan Kayu

During the New Order, limitations on freedom in every sector, especially freedom of the press, inspired a group of journalists, intellectuals, and writers to establish a “pocket” where alternative art, thought and journalism could mutually support each other in creating a network for freedom of expression. In 1994, three print media outlets were closed by the government: Tempo, Editor, and Detik. This led to the establishment of Komunitas Utan Kayu. In an complex of old houses and stores at Jalan Utan Kayu 68-H East Jakarta, the Institut Studi Arus Informasi was established in 1995, with Galeri Lontar following in 1996. Teater Utan Kayu opened in 1997. Komunitas Utan Kayu (KUK) consists of three organizations working in the arts: Teater Utan Kayu, Galeri Lontar, and the cultural journal Kalam. KUK also includes three other institutions – Institut Studi Arus Informasi, Radio 68-H, and the Liberal Islam Network. Now the institutions that form Komunitas Utan Kayu work in their individuals fields but continue to support each other to maintain the energy and principles of freedom of thought and expression. Komunitas Utan Kayu believes that experimentation and sophistication in various fields is a sign of a society that is democratic, open and progressive.