PBNU Deplores Qur'an Memorisation Challenge for Alcohol: Investigate Thoroughly

The Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) has deplored a promotional stunt for alcoholic beverages disguised as a Qur’an memorisation challenge during The Sounds Project music concert in Ancol, North Jakarta. PBNU reminded the public that the Qur’an is a holy book whose sanctity must be preserved.

"We deeply regret the existence of a Qur’an memorisation challenge used as a means of promotion or a prize for alcoholic drinks. The Qur’an is a holy book that must be glorified, not toyed with for commercial or entertainment purposes," said PBNU Religious Affairs Chairman Ahmad Fahrur Rozi in a statement on Tuesday (11/8/2026).

Gus Fahrur stated that anyone involved in such an action should possess moral sensitivity and responsibility. He stressed that creative freedom must not cross the boundaries of respect for religion and the feelings of religious communities. "Memorising the Qur’an is a noble deed; never exchange it for something that is forbidden," he said.

Gus Fahrur urged the police to investigate the case professionally. He also called for a comprehensive evaluation to prevent such an action from recurring. "We support the law enforcement authorities in investigating this incident professionally, objectively, and in accordance with legal provisions. At the same time, the event organiser and the brand owner must conduct a serious evaluation so that an incident that hurts the faithful like this does not happen again," he stated.

Regarding the viral challenge, the police have stepped in to conduct an investigation. "In relation to the news, the Criminal Investigation Unit of the Pademangan Sector Police is currently conducting an investigation," said North Jakarta Metro Police Public Relations Head, Iptu Maryati Jonggi, when contacted on Tuesday (11/8). Jonggi said her party would examine a number of witnesses regarding the information. Currently, the police are still carrying out an in-depth inquiry. "Yes (witnesses will be examined). It is still under investigation," she said.

In a video circulating online, a booth for an alcoholic beverage brand at a music festival was seen holding a challenge for visitors to memorise a chapter of the Qur’an, Ad-Dhuha. The video indicated that visitors who could recite it would receive a reward suspected to be alcohol. The footage also showed visitors reciting the verses of Ad-Dhuha one by one, followed by cheers and applause upon completion.