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“Bongkar“ by Swami: A Rock Anthem of Resistance

Few Indonesian songs capture the essence of protest like “Bongkar”, a bold and fearless anthem by Swami. Released in 1989, the song became a rallying cry for social justice, speaking directly to the frustrations of the people. With its combination of rock energy and poetic lyricism, “Bongkar” remains a powerful statement against oppression and corruption.

Musical Composition and Style

Musically, “Bongkar” blends rock and folk influences, creating a sound that is both raw and anthemic. The gritty electric guitar riffs, pounding drums, and rebellious energy drive the song forward, mirroring the urgency of its message. The chant-like refrain “Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar!” enhances its call-to-action feel, making it perfect for mass singalongs. Iwan Fals’ raw, expressive vocals add depth, making every word resonate with emotional intensity.

Lyrical Themes and Meaning

The lyrics of “Bongkar” paint a picture of widespread injustice and disillusionment. The opening lines “Kalau cinta sudah dibuang, jangan harap keadilan akan datang” (If love is discarded, don’t expect justice to come) set the tone for a critique of corruption and moral decay.

The song doesn’t just complain—it calls for action. “Ternyata kita harus ke jalan, robohkan setan yang berdiri mengangkang” (We have to take to the streets, overthrow the devils standing with arrogance) directly encourages protest and revolution. The chorus emphasizes the people’s anger toward oppression and greed, demanding an end to uncertainty and exploitation.

Another powerful moment is the line “Di jalanan kami sandarkan cita-cita, sebab di rumah tak ada lagi yang bisa dipercaya” (On the streets, we rest our dreams, because there’s nothing at home we can trust anymore). It speaks to the youth’s frustration and their search for hope beyond broken institutions.

Cultural and Historical Impact

During the late 1980s, Indonesia was under Suharto’s New Order regime, where censorship was strict, and criticism of the government was risky. Despite this, “Bongkar” became a symbol of resistance and defiance, often associated with student protests and social movements.

Its legacy continues today, as the song is frequently played at demonstrations and political rallies. The issues it addresses—corruption, inequality, and the struggle for justice—are still relevant, keeping “Bongkar” as one of Indonesia’s most enduring protest anthems.

Conclusion

More than three decades since its release, “Bongkar” remains a powerful voice for those demanding change. With its raw energy, unforgettable chorus, and fearless lyrics, it is not just a song but a call to action. Whether played on the streets, at concerts, or through speakers at a rally, “Bongkar” continues to inspire generations to stand up and fight for justice.

For those who wants to hear the song, it’s on Youtube.

SWAMI – “Bongkar” Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Kalau cinta sudah dibuang
Jangan harap keadilan akan datang
Kesedihan hanya tontonan
Bagi mereka yang diperkuda jabatan

[Refrain]
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar

[Verse 2]
Sabar sabar sabar dan tunggu
Itu jawaban yang kami terima
Ternyata kita harus ke jalan
Robohkan setan yang berdiri mengangkang

[Refrain]
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar

[Chorus 1]
Penindasan serta kesewenang-wenangan
Banyak lagi t’ramat banyak untuk disebutkan
Hoi! hentikan
Hentikan jangan diteruskan
Kami muak dengan ketidakpastian
Dan keserakahan

[Chorus 2]
Di jalanan kami sandarkan cita cita
Sebab di rumah tak ada lagi yang bisa dipercaya
Orang tua pandanglah kami s’bagai manusia
Kami bertanya tolong kau jawab dengan cinta
Oh! oh!

[Refrain]
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar

[Chorus 1]
Penindasan serta kesewenang-wenangan
Banyak lagi t’ramat banyak untuk disebutkan
Hoi! hentikan
Hentikan jangan diteruskan
Kami muak dengan ketidakpastian
Dan keserakahan

[Refrain]
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar

[Chorus 2]
Di jalanan kami sandarkan cita cita
Sebab di rumah tak ada lagi yang bisa dipercaya
Orang tua pandanglah kami s’bagai manusia
Kami bertanya tolong kau jawab dengan cinta

[Refrain]
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar
Oh-oh-ya oh ya-oh ya, bongkar

(Kok bisa?)
(Bisa kok!)