PHDI and MUI Bali Respond to Nyepi and Takbiran Controversy

Denpasar — The Parisada Hindu Dharma Indonesia (PHDI) Bali and the Indonesian Ulama Council (MUI) Bali have responded to the ongoing controversy regarding the Nyepi holiday, which may coincide with the eve of Eid al-Fitr (Takbiran night).

“Essentially, if we use the joint ministerial decree (SKB) as our reference point, there need not be complications because according to the SKB, Eid al-Fitr falls on 21 and 22 March, whereas Nyepi is on 19 March, so there would be no overlap,” said PHDI Bali Chairman I Nyoman Kenak in Denpasar on Wednesday.

Following a meeting of Bali’s religious organisations, PHDI Bali proposed that the joint ministerial decree be used as a reference to prevent ongoing discord within the community.

However, given the final decision by the Bali Inter-Faith Harmony Forum (FKUB) to permit takbiran processions on foot without loudspeakers if they coincide with Nyepi, alternative measures are necessary to prevent violation or disruption of Bali’s Nyepi observances.

PHDI Bali has agreed that each religious organisation’s leadership in Bali should issue its own guidance to ensure adherents properly observe Nyepi.

In agreement with this approach, MUI Bali Chairman Mahrusun Hadyono will request Muslims in Bali to respect the observance of Nyepi.

Should the results of the Isbat Session indicate that 1 Syawal falls on 20 March, he stressed that Muslims should limit religious activities during Nyepi. “Go to the nearest mosque or prayer house; perform evening prayers on foot without any noise, including loudspeakers; and use limited lighting in places of worship, so that after completing the prayers, people return home and preserve the quiet atmosphere,” he stated.

MUI Bali reminded the community that during Takbiran night, Muslims need only worship at their nearest mosque, and those living far away can perform prayers at home. With this focus on the spiritual essence of worship, both major religious celebrations should proceed harmoniously, especially given Bali’s long history of diverse religious communities living together and upholding high tolerance.