Indonesia: Ramadan to begin May 15-16

Event

On May 15-16, Muslims in Indonesia will begin their month-long celebration of Ramadan. The end of the month of Ramadan, marked by the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, will take place between June 14-16. Though practices can vary by country, many businesses, restaurants, and government administrations are expected to operate on a reduced schedule during this holy month. Diplomatic missions may also operate on a similar schedule.

Indonesia is home to a large population of hardline Muslims, who have proved to be intolerant of any perceived disrespect of their religion. Sporadic unrest may break out in Muslim-majority areas if practices are not respected, especially in Jakarta, Maluku, and Central Sulawesi.

Transportation disruptions are to be anticipated during this period due to an increased number of travelers, especially in airports. Heavy traffic after sundown (particularly over weekends) is to be anticipated as Muslims typically gather to celebrate the holy month with family. Furthermore, traffic accidents tend to increase during Ramadan (especially at dusk) due to a combination of exhaustion, hunger, dehydration, and impatience.

Additionally, expect tight security measures in major urban areas due to a heightened terror threat. Finally, local authorities typically observe an increase in incidents of petty crime during this period.

Context

Ramadan is a period of reflection and self-restraint and carries great significance within the Muslim calendar. Muslims traditionally observe daytime fasting and are called to practice increased devotion. Nearly 88 percent of the Indonesian population is Muslim, 72 percent of which support sharia law, a legal code based on the Quran and other Islamic scripture, as official law of the land in their country.

Advice

Individuals in Indonesia are advised not to eat, drink, or smoke in public by day during this period. Travelers are also advised to allow additional time for travel and to avoid any form of public demonstration or public gathering.

According to various Western intelligence security assessments, there is a high threat from terrorism in Indonesia. Terrorist groups continue to plan attacks and have the capacity and intent to carry out these attacks at anytime and anywhere in the country. Past attacks have included suicide bombing and shootings, targeting public and crowded places. Individuals throughout the country are advised to be particularly vigilant during high-profile periods, when large numbers of people typically gather and would-be attackers know the symbolic impact of a successful attack would be particularly high. Travelers advised to remain aware of their surroundings and to report any suspicious behavior.