Sabang City on Weh Island in Aceh – the only region in
Muslim-majority Indonesia that has implemented Sharia law – has banned residents
from celebrating the new year. “Irresponsible” activities such as those involving
air horns, noise makers or fireworks are strictly forbidden. Tourists and other
visitors are included in the prohibition. Sabang’s Mayor Nazaruddin offered this clarification:
“We are not banning local or international tourists coming to Sabang. We would
be happy if Sabang was crowded with tourists. But we expect incoming tourists
to adapt to the customs and cultures of Sabang City.” The city is even barring
Islamic activities such as zikir (chants praising God), yasinan (Quran
recitals), tausiyah (sermons) and similar activities on New Year's Eve as it
would make it feel as if the Gregorian New Year celebration was allowed in
Islam. Luckily, I don’t live in Sabang, and I don’t intend to visit. I’ll just
wish you a happy new year from here.
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