Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Mining Student Association of the Bandung Institute of Technology (HMT-ITB) issued a formal apology on Wednesday (15/4/2026) following widespread public outcry over a viral video featuring a song titled "Erika" containing vulgar lyrics. 

The controversial performance by the association's semi-dangdut orchestra unit sparked intense social media backlash for its explicit content and objectification of women. Association leaders admitted that performing the decades-old song was a grave oversight that failed to align with modern ethical standards and the academic values of the prestigious institution.

"We deeply regret the distress caused and realize it was a negligence to perform this song given evolving social norms regarding decency," said the official HMT-ITB board in a written communique, as reported by antaranews.com.

The organization has coordinated with relevant parties to take down all digital recordings from official and affiliated channels, including archival footage from 2020. Internal evaluations are now underway to review all organizational guidelines and ensure future activities respect individual dignity and institutional ethics.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)