MUI: Carnival resembling satanic rituals contradicts Islamic teachings
The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has highlighted the Simbang Kulon Night Carnival (SKNC) 2026 in Pekalongan, Central Java, which has sparked controversy due to its presentation of mystical-themed performances judged to resemble satanic rituals.
MUI Vice Chairman Cholil Nafis stated that the frightening attractions, which feature satanic symbols and the sadistic public slaughter of animals, are fundamentally contrary to the essence of Islamic teachings and the noble values of the Maulid Nabi commemoration.
“Carnivals that are educational are certainly permitted, but when they become animistic or frightening, they are certainly in conflict with the Maulid Nabi celebrations,” Kiai Cholil stated in Jakarta on Monday.
In the SKNC 2026 footage that went viral on social media, the performance featured performers wearing demon costumes, carrying books with one-eye symbols and torches, as well as the use of inverted pentagram symbols, which are universally identified with satanic movements.
The element that drew the most attention and caused public unrest was a scene depicting the slaughter of a goat in the middle of the performance sequence.
In the context of demonstrating Islamic art and community togetherness, Kiai Cholil warned against deviating into displays of demons or slaughtering animals in an improper manner, such as severing the neck until it detaches.
“That is not the teaching of the Prophet,” said Kiai Cholil.
Furthermore, the caretaker of the Cendekia Amanah Islamic Boarding School urged organisers and the wider community to mark the month of Maulid Nabi with the recitation of the Holy Quran, the chanting of salawat, the delivery of good advice (mauidhoh hasanah), stories of the Prophet’s exemplary life, and the provision of food as a form of gratitude (charity).
The Chairman of the DSN MUI Management Body expressed hope that organisers in various regions would be more selective, wise, and cautious when designing cultural art expressions.