Rendra's play is a satirical look at the political corruption of Indonesia and their contribution to the erosion, or rather the pillaging of their natural resources while running up multi-billion dollar debt in the 1970s, all in the name of Western "progress." Indonesia had strict censorship over anything that opposed the government, and thus the opening of the play relates to this fact. Rendra through Dalang in the prologue says clearly that the story does not take place in Indonesia. This, though, further adds to the comedy of the play and by pressing into it Rendra creates satirical humor.
The story is full of the reality of Westernization upon Indonesia, and the true meaning of keeping up with the times. We see that Abivara has gone to a university overseas, which seems grand that he has had the opportunity to be educated beyond the borders of the Naga land. But we later learn from Big Boss that many youth from non-industrialized countries are sent to overseas schools in order to pound in them Western thought and ideology which concerns itself with none other than capitalism and industrialization, which is exactly what they want to be brought to a mineral rich country like Indonesia. So, not only are foregin countries sending Ambassadors to manipulate the Indonesian government into deep debt while pillaging their land, but they are also training the youth to think in a way that will infect the culture rather than allow it to bloom and produce more fruitfully.
Vanity has replaced service to the people, which is represented by the Queen wearing sunglasses--just like the movie stars; and we watch as the President of Parliment commends Abisavam for his honesty in speech. This simple statement is profound as Abisavam replies that nobody should be commended for speaking honestly, as honesty should be the natural way in which anyone communicates. This simple exchange has within it the world of politics, and the many ways which humanity has justified their corrupt behavior--they simply don't speak the truth when face to face with anyone, instead they have become a facade, just like the high-end plastic surgery hospital that no one can afford. They have the appearance of glamour and advancement, when underneath their souls are lost, as they've sold it for profit.
