Bali Governor States Religious Council Decides Takbiran Observance at Home During Nyepi

Denpasar – Bali Governor Wayan Koster announced that a meeting with religious organisations in Bali has resulted in a decision that takbiran should be conducted at home if it coincides with Nyepi.

“During yesterday’s meeting with all religious organisation councils, there was already an appeal for takbiran to be held at each household. This appeal comes from the councils themselves, not from the governor,” Koster said in Denpasar on Monday.

The head of Bali Provincial Government noted that in several districts, religious organisations such as the Indonesian Ulama Council (MUI) and Muhammadiyah have already issued directives. With this decision from religious organisations to ensure the smooth observance of Nyepi, Koster assured there is nothing to be concerned about.

“If this takes place, then on 19 March there will be no takbiran, so there is nothing to worry about. It will be safe and conducive, and I have already facilitated this,” said the Bali Governor.

Based on the government’s lunar calendar determination meeting, the Bali Provincial Government sees there is still a possibility that 1 Shawwal will fall on 21 March 2026, meaning takbiran would not coincide with Nyepi. However, Muhammadiyah is confirmed to celebrate Eid al-Fitr on 20 March, meaning takbiran would occur during Nyepi. According to the Bali Provincial Government, this is not problematic as the number of worshippers is not too large, and the community can be directed through organisational leadership to perform takbiran at home.

During a Coordination Meeting on Handling Social Conflicts in relation to Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr, Koster identified several areas prone to friction, including Denpasar, Buleleng, and Jembrana. However, Bali has consistently managed its religious diversity successfully. During Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr, all religious organisation leaders have consistently issued calls to maintain order, security, and harmony, allowing both celebrations to proceed with dignity.

This year, the Bali Governor identified potential social conflicts that need to be anticipated and properly managed.

“We also need to be vigilant about various social dynamics, such as the possible emergence of provocative narratives on social media, lack of understanding of Nyepi regulations among newcomers and foreign tourists, as well as potential threats to public security and order ahead of the religious holiday,” he said.

To address this, the Bali Provincial Government, together with the military and police, is strengthening strategic measures, including enhancing cross-sector coordination, strengthening early detection of potential social conflicts, optimising the role of security personnel and customary village officials, and prioritising a dialogical and persuasive approach in resolving issues that arise in the community.