A viral video showing female DJ Diah Krisna performing in a revealing version of a high school uniform at a graduation event in Bali has drawn sharp backlash, prompting public apologies from the DJ and the principal of SMKN 1 Tejakula, where the event took place.
In the video, Krisna is seen wearing a tight white top and a grey miniskirt resembling a senior high school uniform, while students — some also in school attire — dance behind her. The performance, held on 28 April, was part of a student-organized “Colour Party” celebrating the graduation of 12th graders.
DJ Diah Krisna, who clarified she is not a student or alumna of the school, said she was invited as a paid performer by the student committee. In an Instagram video statement, she explained that both her outfit and the music genre were agreed upon in advance with student organizers.
“We apologize for the controversy this post has caused,” she said.
Education authorities to investigate
The incident has sparked concern among local education officials and government leaders. Bali’s Education, Youth, and Sports Agency (Disdikpora) announced it would summon the school and student organizers for questioning and education on appropriate conduct.
“This happened due to a lack of supervision, both from the school and the agency,” said Crisna Adijaya, head of the vocational school division at Disdikpora.
“We’ve already issued guidelines on how farewell events should be conducted — and this was clearly beyond our control.”
Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, also weighed in, stating he would consult with the education agency to gather more details before commenting further.
Why it struck a nerve in Bali
In Balinese society — which blends conservative Hindu values with Indonesia’s broader norms of modesty — public performances in a school context involving provocative clothing can be perceived as deeply inappropriate.
Uniforms, in particular, carry symbolic weight. They are not only associated with education but also with discipline, hierarchy, and respect.
For many locals, seeing an adult in a sexualized version of a school uniform — performing at an official school function — represents a crossing of moral and cultural boundaries.
Events involving youth, especially within educational institutions, are expected to maintain decorum aligned with societal expectations.
While Bali is often seen through a liberal lens by tourists and expats due to its party scene and open beaches, local customs — particularly in rural areas like Buleleng — remain relatively conservative.
School principal apologizes
Nyoman Sudimahayasa, the principal of SMKN 1 Tejakula, issued a written apology, noting that the event was not part of the school’s official program. According to Sudimahayasa, the event was organized independently by students with parental consent and funding.
He stressed that teachers, local security, and community officers were present during the event to prevent any disturbances.
“This has become a valuable lesson for us,” he wrote. “We’re committed to improving in the future.”
What’s next
Authorities are expected to complete their investigation in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the incident has sparked ongoing discussion in local media about how far student-led celebrations should be allowed to go — and who is responsible when boundaries are pushed too far.
