Gen Z Flocks to KUA for Free, Simple Weddings Amid Economic Considerations
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Getting married at the Office of Religious Affairs (KUA) is no longer seen as a second-rate option. Increasingly, young couples, especially from Gen Z, are choosing to hold their marriage solemnisation at the KUA’s wedding hall rather than renting a venue or hosting a large party.
Behind this trend, one major draw is the simplicity of the process and the fact that it is completely free of charge if held on a working day and during working hours.
However, Abdul Hamid, a marriage registrar at the Setiabudi KUA, explained that couples cannot simply arrive and get married on the spot. Prospective brides and grooms must register their marriage plan in advance.
“The registration requires a 10-day working notice. If it’s less than that, they need a dispensation letter from the sub-district or a statement letter explaining why the marriage must be held in under 10 days,” he said.
In addition to registration, couples must prepare several administrative documents. Hamid assured that the requirements are not complicated. “The requirements include an introductory letter from the neighbourhood and community units, a health certificate, ID cards, family cards, and diplomas. If one party is from abroad, a letter from the embassy is needed,” he explained.
Hamid elaborated that the free service applies only to ceremonies conducted at the KUA during working days and hours. A fee is only charged if the solemnisation takes place outside of these provisions, such as on a public holiday or outside working hours.
“It’s free if the marriage contract is on a working day during working hours. Outside of that, there is a Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) fee of Rp600,000 that goes to the state treasury,” Hamid stated. He added that this fee also applies if a couple chooses to marry at the KUA on a Saturday or other holiday.
Regarding facilities, Hamid explained that the KUA provides the wedding hall, complete with tables and chairs, but does not offer specific decorations. Couples are welcome to bring their own decorations if they wish to create a more attractive atmosphere.
The ease of the process and the minimal costs are seen as key drivers of this trend. Hamid noted that Gen Z’s preference for practicality is a major factor. “Gen Z likes things that are simple. The core of the marriage is the solemnisation itself,” he said.
Economic considerations also play a significant role. “The economy is quite difficult right now, so choosing the KUA helps save money. The funds can be used for the future, like a honeymoon, building a business, or buying a house,” Hamid added.
Nasrulloh, Head of the Tebet KUA, confirmed the simple process, stating that couples only need to complete data requirements such as introductory letters from the sub-district and health records from the community health centre. He also observed that many couples choose to marry on Fridays.
This sentiment was echoed by Seruni Cantika, a Gen Z bride who chose to marry at the KUA. “The main reason is simplicity. Many people my age now think it’s better to use the money for life after the wedding,” she said. Seruni spent only around Rp6 million to Rp7 million in total, covering a simple family meal and personal services like a make-up artist, dress rental, and photographer, while the ceremony at the KUA itself was free.
Wedding industry players are also observing this shift. Adi Rahzalafna, owner of SatSet Wedding Organizer, noted that getting married at the KUA is no longer stigmatised as a sign of financial limitation but has become a new lifestyle choice for young couples. He sees this as a refreshing change in perspective, removing the negative stereotypes about KUA weddings.