Religious Affairs Minister Reports to Prabowo: Takbir Night Will Go Ahead During Nyepi in Bali

Jakarta – Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has briefed President Prabowo Subianto on preparations ahead of Idulfitri, including takbiran activities that run close to Bali’s Nyepi celebrations.

Nasaruddin Umar made the remarks after meeting President Prabowo at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. He explained that the government has anticipated potential dynamics arising from the close timing of Nyepi and takbiran, and that coordination has been carried out with regional administrations and community figures in Bali to maintain harmony among adherents of different religions.

“I also reported that preparations for the feast are coming because some places have Nyepi on the 19th. Nyepi requires there to be no loud noises, no vehicles, and so on, yet on that night our friends would perform takbir,” Nasaruddin told reporters at the Presidential Complex, Central Jakarta.

Nasaruddin said that the results of the coordination show there is a shared agreement that the two religious celebrations can proceed with mutual respect. The government and Bali’s community leaders have agreed on a takbiran mechanism that is aligned with Nyepi provisions. “Alhamdulillah we have reported to the President that there is an agreement with the local government and community leaders in Bali: takbir does not conflict with Nyepi, but Nyepi must proceed; takbir will also go ahead, but without a sound system and with a time limit from 6pm to 9pm,” he explained.

In addition, Nasaruddin Umar touched on the possibility of differences in the declaration of Idulfitri in Indonesia. He stressed that such differences are normal in the religious life of the archipelago and will be determined through the isbat session. “And the Eid may differ; we accept that as something normal in Indonesia. We will see when the isbat session decides exactly when Eid will be,” Nasaruddin said.

He emphasised that the government will continue to strive to maintain tolerance and harmony among adherents of different religions, especially during major religious moments that occur in close succession.