Alcohol Disappears in Manokwari Ahead of National Pesparawi
The sound of church hymns has yet to fill the air, but a shift in atmosphere is already palpable in Manokwari. Bottles of alcoholic beverages have begun disappearing from shop displays and nightlife venues are being restricted. Manokwari has effectively pressed the ‘pause’ button on the circulation of alcohol ahead of the arrival of thousands of church choir guests. Residents are being urged to maintain order as participants of the XIV National Ecclesiastical Choir Festival (Pesparawi) prepare to arrive in Tanah Papua.
This firm measure is being taken to welcome thousands of guests from across Indonesia who will attend the XIV National Pesparawi, scheduled to take place from 18 to 28 June 2026. The policy aims to create a conducive climate of public security and order (kamtibmas) during the event.
Manokwari Vice Regent Mugiyono stated that the ban on alcohol sales has been formally regulated through Manokwari Regent Instruction Number 691 of 2026. The prohibition is in effect for 19 days, from 14 June to 2 July 2026. ‘We ask for the understanding of distributors, outlets, and all residents of Manokwari. Remember that Manokwari is the host of the XIV National Pesparawi,’ Mugiyono said on Tuesday (16/6/2026).
The Manokwari Regency Government has also emphasised that strict sanctions will be imposed on civil servants and business operators found violating the instruction. Coordination with security forces has been tightened to ensure compliance on the ground.
In addition to the total ban on alcohol sales, the local government has also imposed operating hour restrictions on a number of entertainment venues and other public facilities.
Based on data from the Regional Secretary of Manokwari Regency, Yan Ayomi, a total of 5,853 participants from 37 provinces have been registered. This figure does not yet include invited guests and contingent officials who are already beginning to fill Manokwari. As the centre of activities, the Regency Government has completed the preparation of facilities and infrastructure at the Borarsi Public Open Space (RTP). This location will serve as the silent witness to the grandeur of the opening and closing ceremonies of the XIV National Pesparawi. Yan Ayomi reminded everyone that the success of this event is a shared responsibility. ‘The contingents have started arriving. Every member of the community is responsible for maintaining the security of their neighbourhoods for the comfort of our guests,’ he concluded.