When Bruno Mars and Blackpink’s Rosé dropped their banger ‘APT.’ on October 18, it seemed destined to be on repeat—everywhere. And let’s be real, with its addictive riff and lyrics, it was only a matter of time before it dominated social media and playlists worldwide. But not everyone is swaying to the beat.
While the song has fans dancing in their kitchens, it’s also sparked some heated debates across the Causeway. Public Health Malaysia (PHM), a Facebook page with over 1.1 million followers, is sounding the alarm on the track’s alleged “negative Western influence.”
TL;DR
- Don’t Overreact: While some concerns about the song’s lyrics are valid, it’s important to maintain perspective.
- Critical Listening: Encourage critical thinking and media literacy, especially among younger audiences.
- Cultural Exchange: Embrace cultural diversity and use it as an opportunity for learning and understanding.
- Balance and Moderation: Enjoy music responsibly and be mindful of the messages it conveys.
- Open Dialogue: Foster open and respectful discussions about cultural differences and societal values.
What’s the Fuss About ‘APT.’?
For the uninitiated, ‘APT.’ is short for “Apateu,” the Korean word for “apartment.” But in this context, it refers to a popular Korean drinking game. PHM isn’t too thrilled about the lyrics, which they claim glorify behaviors that clash with traditional Eastern cultural values.
Here’s what they flagged as problematic:
- “Kissy face, kissy face, sent to your phone. But I’m tryna kiss your lips for real.”
- “Turn this apateu into a club, I’m talkin’ drink, dance, smoke, freak, party all night.”
According to PHM, these lines promote “seductive behavior” and could desensitize people to harmful influences, especially since the song is widely used in the background of TikTok and Instagram videos. The concern? Kids memorizing the lyrics without realizing the messages they’re absorbing.
Western vs. Eastern Values: The Eternal Clash
PHM’s critique dives deeper than just a catchy tune. They argue that the song represents a “symbolic meeting place” where Western and Eastern cultural values clash—and not in a good way. In their view, this normalization of Western behaviors is a slippery slope, especially for impressionable youth.
In an era where global music knows no borders, this tension is nothing new. Chart-topping songs often flirt with themes of love, rebellion, and indulgence. But should this automatically spell doom for cultural values?
What the Internet Thinks
Netizens, never ones to hold back, had mixed reactions.
- One sarcastically wrote, “People just want to enjoy the melody? Why not you go live in a cave?”
- Another suggested, “If you’re taking the song this seriously, maybe you need your brains checked.”
- And then there’s the ever-relatable, “Apa ini?” (“What is this?”).
While some shared PHM’s concerns, others dismissed them as over-the-top. After all, isn’t music meant to be enjoyed, not dissected?
“The song is catchy, no doubt, but calling it a ‘bad influence’ feels like a stretch. People have been listening to party anthems for decades without turning into reckless rebels. Let’s not forget, it’s just a song—are we really going to start policing every beat and lyric now? Maybe the real issue is how little we trust people to think for themselves.” – Amelia Tan, 28, Kuala Lumpur
Let’s Talk About the Bigger Picture
Now, let me break it down:
First off, PHM’s worries aren’t entirely off-base. Kids today are sponges, and music is a powerful medium. But does every catchy line turn us into soju-chugging party animals? Probably not.
Music often mirrors societal trends rather than creating them. Songs like ‘APT.’ reflect modern lifestyles, not an active agenda to corrupt morals. If anything, it’s a reminder for parents and educators to step up and discuss the content kids consume—rather than blame Bruno Mars or Rosé for a cultural apocalypse.
My Two Cents (Because You Asked)
Let’s put things into perspective:
- Context Matters:
Yes, the lyrics might raise eyebrows, but how often do we actually take pop songs literally? Most of us don’t turn into cowboys after listening to Lil Nas X’s ‘Old Town Road.’ - Blame the Algorithm, Not the Artists:
If this song’s everywhere, it’s likely because algorithms think we like it. Maybe we should question why these platforms keep pushing certain trends rather than bashing the artists themselves. - Culture Isn’t That Fragile:
Eastern values have withstood centuries of change. One pop song won’t dismantle them overnight. Instead of fearing Western influence, maybe we can teach kids to appreciate both sides while staying rooted in their own heritage.
What Can We Learn From This?
This debate highlights a key point: balance is everything.
- Instead of banning songs or clinging to extremes, let’s foster open discussions about media literacy.
- Encourage kids (and adults) to critically evaluate the content they consume.
- And hey, maybe loosen up a little. Dancing to ‘APT.’ won’t automatically make you a cultural sellout.
Final Thoughts
Whether you love it, hate it, or secretly hum it in the shower, ‘APT.’ is a reflection of our times. It’s catchy, controversial, and unapologetically modern.
So, what’s the takeaway? Enjoy the song if it makes you happy. Discuss its themes if you’re concerned. But don’t let it divide us over what is, at its core, just music.
After all, life’s too short not to dance—even if it’s to a song about apartments.
