Bali Police Give Special Attention to Nyepi Celebrations and Evening of Takbir

Denpasar — The Bali Regional Police have given special attention to activities surrounding Nyepi, the Hindu New Year of Caka 1948, which coincides with expected Islamic takbir evening celebrations across various regions in Bali.

Bali Police Chief Inspector General Daniel Adityajaya, speaking at the Operation Ketupat Agung 2026 personnel parade at the Mako Brimob Polda Bali headquarters in Denpasar on Thursday, stated that security operations will focus on Nyepi celebrations including Tawur Agung Kesanga, ogoh-ogoh parades, pengerupukan rituals, and the culmination on Nyepi Day on 19 March 2026.

Daniel explained that on 18 March 2026, authorities anticipate potential traffic congestion from the Tawur Kesanga ceremony, with worshippers gathering at road intersections (Catus Pata) and ogoh-ogoh floats being placed on roadsides. Police have appealed to neighbourhood associations throughout Bali not to place ogoh-ogoh floats on roadsides, particularly on major routes serving as access to Gilimanuk and Padangbai ports during the holiday period.

In addition to Nyepi celebrations, the Bali Regional Police are also monitoring takbir evening activities, which are estimated to occur at 308 locations across Bali.

According to Daniel, the central government, through the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs, has not yet officially determined the date of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah, though it is estimated to fall on 21 or 22 March 2026. Nevertheless, the regional government, together with religious leaders and stakeholders, has coordinated planning to anticipate the possibility of takbir evening celebrations occurring close to Nyepi.

“With principles of mutual respect, all activities will proceed but with certain restrictions,” Daniel stated.

Daniel emphasised that takbir celebrations may continue at nearby mosques or prayer halls with worshippers walking without vehicle processions, fireworks, or loudspeakers. These activities are also restricted to between 18:00 and 21:00 local time, prioritising principles of religious tolerance and moderation in Bali.

Furthermore, police alongside relevant agencies have prepared traffic management plans for strategic routes including the vicinity of Ngurah Rai International Airport and access roads to Gilimanuk and Padangbai ports to ensure smooth public mobility during the holiday period.