Bali Authorities Will Not Shut Down Internet On Day of Silence

Bali authorities have agreed to cancel plans to shut down the internet connection on the upcoming Day of Silence Celebration (Nyepi Day) on March 14, 2021. The Day of Silence (Nyepi Day) is an annual celebration in the Hindu tradition to make time for rest and meditation. As a predominantly Hindu province, Bali would promote meditation by blocking internet connection and closing shops, malls, offices, and even the airport, with the exception of essential services like hospitals.

traditional Bali local mask — (Image: ©The Bali Sun – I Wayan Yaika)

Previously, there was speculation about government plans to shut down all radio and television channels as well as an internet connection for 24 hours during the day of Silence.

However, the Head of Indonesia Hinduism Society (PHDI) for Bali, I Gusti Ngurah Sudiana confirmed that according to the decree from PHDI and government officials, the plan to shut down the internet connection was canceled this year.

locals praying meditating — (Image: ©The Bali Sun – I Wayan Yaika)

“Nyepi Day has been set for only one day, and the internet connection will remain active as usual. This decision was made after considering factors such as the Covid-19 pandemic, as people need access to the latest information” said Sudiana during an interview on Thursday (4/3).

In response to this statement from PHDI, Badung Communication and Informatics Agency (Kominfo) is waiting for further instructions from Bali provincial government regarding the policy as the governor has not yet issued a decree.

traditions locals masks — (Image: ©The Bali Sun – I Wayan Yaika)

“We’re still waiting for the official decree from the governor whether we should turn off the internet on public facilities such as Banjar like we have been doing on every Nyepi Day,” said the Head of Badung Kominfo, I Gusti Ngurah Jaya Saputra on Thursday.

Meanwhile, TV and radio channels will be shut down during the celebration in order to minimize noise.

Bali traditions locals masks — (Image: ©The Bali Sun – I Wayan Yaika)

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Wayan Bo

Saturday 6th of March 2021

It's similar to Sabbath by Orthodox Jews, which is each week from Friday afternoon until Sunday midnight.

Ellen

@Wayan Bo, fact.....friday dusk til dusk Saturday

Pan Demi

the internet connection has nothing to do with the four self-control during silence day (catur brata penyepian) ... despite the brata states that no lighting a fire, no works, no traveling and no entertainment .. in practice those up to the personal, depending what quality of the individual's faith is. .