Authorities summon club management after viral grand opening video sparks moral and legal concerns in Batam
A video showing erotic performances during the grand opening of First Club in Batam has gone viral, prompting public outrage and an official summons from the Batam Tourism and Culture Office (Disparbud).
The footage, which surfaced in early April 2025, features scantily clad dancers performing provocative routines in front of a cheering crowd at the newly launched entertainment venue in the Jodoh area. The clip’s circulation has sparked heated online debates and raised questions about nightlife oversight in the city.
Erotic Opening Show Sparks Outrage
The 20-second clip shows several women dancing in minimal clothing, with one dancer pouring liquid over her body. The performance was part of First Club’s grand opening, which drew heavy attendance and social media attention.
Firmansyah, representing First Club, acknowledged the video was filmed during their launch but stated the provocative act was not part of the club’s official agenda. “The erotic dance wasn’t ours—it was arranged by the event organizer,” he explained, citing lack of supervision during the busy opening event.
Apology and Clarification from Management
Speaking on April 13, Firmansyah offered a formal apology to the public. “This was a lapse in our oversight. We sincerely apologize to the community of Batam,” he said. He also stressed that such performances were not a regular feature of the club, which typically only hosts DJs and live music.
Firmansyah confirmed that all business operations and licensing for First Club were reported to the relevant authorities, including the Investment and Integrated Services Office (DPM PTSP).
Official Summons and Ongoing Scrutiny
In response to the viral incident, Batam’s Head of Disparbud, Ardywinata, confirmed that a formal summons had been sent to the club’s management. The meeting is scheduled for April 14, 2025. “We’ve issued the summons and expect the club to provide clarification,” he stated.
Firmansyah has acknowledged receipt of the notice and confirmed their attendance at the hearing.
MUI Batam to Issue Official Stance
Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) in Batam, Lukman Rifai, announced that the council would send an official response to First Club regarding the scandalous video. “Honestly, I’m taking this matter seriously. If the video is indeed accurate, this could corrupt the morals of Batam’s younger generation,” he warned.
While Lukman admitted he had yet to see the video firsthand, he stated that MUI Batam would seek clarification and investigate the indecent content linked to First Club’s event. “I haven’t seen the footage myself, but we will follow up and request an explanation,” he emphasized.
Alleged Link to Market Eviction Denied
Separately, First Club was recently entangled in rumors involving the eviction of street vendors at Pasar Angkasa, a market located next to the club’s premises. In a statement, the management denied any role in the land dispute. “We have no involvement in the eviction—such matters are under the authority of local RTs and relevant agencies,” said Firmansyah.
While some affected vendors alleged intimidation linked to the club’s development, local police clarified that recent tensions were limited to verbal disputes during enforcement operations.
The controversy surrounding First Club Batam reflects growing public sensitivity toward nightlife regulation and urban development. As authorities proceed with formal evaluations and public concerns mount, the case highlights the need for transparent event governance and stronger coordination between entertainment venues and city regulators.
Sources: Batam News (2025), iNews Batam (2025), Batam News (2025)
Keywords: First Club Apology, Erotic Dance Batam, Batam Viral Scandal, Batam Club Controversy, Tourism Oversight Batam
