It is one of the most wonderful times of the year to be in Indonesia. As a majority Muslim nation, more than 260 million people in Indonesia are observing the holy month of Ramadan.
In Bali, which is a majority Balinese Hindu province, preparations are underway for the holy day of silence, known as Nyepi. With these religious festivities happening nationwide, an increased police presence will be available to help ensure everyone is safe.
On Wednesday, 25th February, the Denpasar Police held a Public Order and Security Alert Roll Call to mark the holy month of Ramadan. These kinds of roll call events are held regularly ahead of police operations and big public holidays and festivals.
The roll call event was held in the courtyard of the Denpasar Police Headquarters and was led by the Denpasar Police Chief, Senior Commissioner Leonardo D. Simatupang. The roll call was also attended by the Chairman of the Denpasar City Branch of Nahdlatul Ulama and the Denpasar City Muhammadiyah Leadership.
This alert roll call was held as a precautionary measure in light of increased public mobility during Ramadan. During this period, public activity and the tourism sector tend to increase, including worship services at mosques and other places of worship, shopping centers, and nighttime activities.
Police across Indonesia have noted that there is a potential for this increased movement of people to hold the potential to cause security disturbances, such as street crime, traffic accidents, traffic congestion, and even vulnerability in crowded areas. These kinds of roll call events and increased police patrols are being held throughout Indonesia, not just in Bali.
While Bali is a predominantly Balinese Hindu province, the island is home to many Muslims, some of whom were born and raised there and others who have moved from other parts of the country for work.
Domestic travel for vacations and to connect with family also increases throughout Ramadan, as many Muslims who live in Bali travel to their family homes nationwide, and many families travel to Bali for vacation. This increased movement and travel usually peaks around Eid al-Fitr, which will fall on 21st March 2026 in Indonesia this year.
During the roll call, Police Chief Simatupang told officers to “strengthen personnel presence in crowded areas, places of worship, and locations of religious activities through preventive patrols and public order and security visits. [We must] maintain the sanctity of Ramadan by providing a sense of security and comfort to the public.”
Holy Month Protocol
As Indonesia observes Ramadan and Bali prepares for Nyepi, authorities are stepping up security. Tap a card to see how this impacts your vacation.
HOLY MONTHS
Ramadan & Nyepi
TAP TO REVEALSECURITY ROLL CALL
Increased Patrols
TAP TO REVEALTRAVEL SURGES
Peak Mobility
TAP TO REVEALTOURIST ADVICE
What to Expect
TAP TO REVEAL
He noted the importance of cooperation between the National Police, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), and relevant stakeholders in anticipating potential security disruptions during the holy month. The overall mission is clear: to provide the best possible service to the public, particularly in supporting worship and religious activities, is a top priority.
He concluded, “The public has high hopes for us to provide a sense of security and comfort during the Ramadan fasting month of 1447 H. Carry out this duty with full responsibility, sincerity, and a spirit of devotion.”
For tourists traveling to Bali during Ramadan, there are very few changes in day-to-day life that would impact a vacation.
However, for tourists traveling to Bali and other areas of the country, it should be noted that daily activities can change considerably to accommodate both fasting and worship.
Neighbouring destinations like the Gili Islands, Lombok, and Labuan Bajo are all majority muslim regions, and as such, tourists can expect to encounter differing operating hours, especially in more remote areas.
That said, for the most part, life does go on as usual, and business operating hours in areas popular with tourists generally remain consistent.
This is just a friendly reminder from The Bali Sun to expect the unexpected, to respect the holy month of Ramadan, and maybe keep some snacks in your bag in case restaurants are closed.
Remove All Ads & Unlock All Articles… Sign up for The Bali Sun Premium
Plan Your Bali Holiday:
Book The Best English Speaking Drivers For Airport Transfers & Tours
Choose From Thousands of Bali Hotels, Resorts, and Hostels with Free Cancellation On Most Properties
Book Cheap Flights To Bali
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance That Covers Medical Expenses In Bali
For the latest Bali News & Debate Join our Facebook Community
SUBSCRIBE TO NEW POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to The Bali Sun’s latest breaking news, straight to your inbox.
Discover more from The Bali Sun
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.