Police Deploy Community Safety Officers to Maintain Order During Nyepi-Eid al-Fitr Period
Jakarta – The Police Maintenance Body (Baharkam) of the Indonesian National Police has deployed personnel from the Bhayangkara Community Safety and Order Officers (Bhabinkamtibmas) to maintain public order during the concurrent celebrations of Nyepi and Eid al-Fitr 2026.
Polri’s Baharkam Chief, Police Lieutenant General Karyoto, explained during a hearing with Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives that Bhabinkamtibmas officers will oversee and secure Nyepi ceremony proceedings in their respective administrative villages.
“The deployment includes 2,125 integrated security service personnel, 15 security posts, six service posts, and five integrated posts,” Karyoto stated during the parliamentary session in Senayan, Jakarta, on Wednesday.
Nyepi falls on 19 March 2026, coinciding with the evening of Takbiran for Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah in Bali. To anticipate potential social conflict, congestion, and traffic jams, preventive measures have been implemented.
These measures include a joint circular letter signed by the chairman of the Forum for Religious Harmony (FKUB) and the head of the Bali Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, acknowledged by the regional police chief, military sector commander, and provincial governor.
The police have also coordinated with village officials and community leaders regarding the placement of ogoh-ogoh (large ceremonial effigies) during the performance of the penyucian tawur kesanga purification ceremony on 18 March 2026.
“Efforts include coordination and advisories to village officials and community leaders regarding ogoh-ogoh placement along roadsides, particularly along main roads that serve as migration routes to Gilimanuk Port or Padang Bai Port,” Karyoto noted.
Meanwhile, Bali’s FKUB has agreed that Nyepi will be observed in full solemnity on 19 March from 06:00 to 20 March at 06:00 West Indonesia Time.
“General activities, transportation, broadcasting, mobile data, and outdoor activities will be suspended. Firecrackers, loudspeakers, and activities that disturb the sanctity of the day are prohibited,” Karyoto stated.
Takbiran celebrations will be held at the nearest mosques or prayer houses on foot without processions or vehicles, firecrackers, or excessive loudspeakers between 18:00 and 21:00 West Indonesia Time.
“The emphasis is on promoting religious tolerance and moderation, synergy between the military, police, local government, traditional villages, and religious leaders, and anticipating potential community disturbances,” he added.