Fact Check: Ministry of Religious Affairs' Takbiran Rules Limited Until 21.00 and Sound System Prohibition

Jakarta – A Facebook post circulating on social media displayed an image of Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar appearing to conduct a press conference, accompanied by a narrative claiming that the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) had established new regulations regarding takbiran practices.

The narrative stated that takbiran may only be performed from 18.00 to 21.00, cannot use sound systems, and cannot be conducted whilst travelling around the community.

The post contained the following narration: “NEW KEMENAG RULES: Takbiran Only Allowed From 18.00 Until 21.00 Cannot Use Sound System And Cannot Be Done Whilst Travelling Around”

However, did Kemenag actually issue new regulations restricting takbiran practices as claimed in the post?

Verification:

Based on investigation, Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar did indeed report to President Prabowo Subianto regarding takbiran practices coinciding with Nyepi Day in Bali on 19 March.

According to reports, the government and community leaders in Bali agreed that takbiran could continue to be performed, but with certain restrictions to avoid disrupting Nyepi celebrations.

These restrictions apply only to the Bali region during Nyepi observances. Under the agreement, takbiran can be conducted without using sound systems or loudspeakers and is limited to 18.00 to 21.00 WITA (Western Indonesian Time).

This policy aims to allow takbiran to proceed without disrupting the sanctity of Nyepi celebrations.

Therefore, the narrative claiming that the Ministry of Religious Affairs has established new nationwide regulations prohibiting takbiran with sound systems and prohibiting travelling takbiran processions is inaccurate information. These restrictions apply only within the specific context of Bali during Nyepi celebrations.