A 26-year-old Swiss visitor has been handed a one-year prison sentence in Indonesia after his actions during Bali’s revered Nyepi celebration triggered public anger.
Luzian Andrin Zgraggen was detained in March after uploading footage of himself heading onto a deserted beach while the island observed its annual Hindu Day of Silence.
In the post, he reportedly used offensive language and described the unusual atmosphere as “crazy.”
Nyepi is one of Bali’s most important religious observances.
For about 24 hours, residents and visitors are expected to remain indoors, avoid noise and suspend normal activities.
The regulations cover the entire island, regardless of a person’s religious background.
During the observance, Bali’s main airport closes, internet services are suspended and entertainment activities are halted.
Residents are also encouraged to minimise electricity use and purchase essential supplies beforehand.
This year’s Nyepi was observed on 19 March.
Zgraggen’s decision to leave his accommodation and record himself outdoors was viewed as a serious breach of the island’s religious customs.
According to the Associated Press, the judge said the tourist’s behaviour had insulted Balinese society, wounded religious sentiments and generated widespread public indignation.
During proceedings, Zgraggen maintained that he had not fully understood the strict requirements surrounding Nyepi.
He expressed remorse and apologised to the Balinese community, saying he never intended to cause offence.
Foreign visitors have faced deportation and other penalties in previous years for disregarding Nyepi regulations.
The case comes as Bali continues to experience a major resurgence in tourism following the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The island recorded an unprecedented seven million overseas arrivals last year.
However, the growing influx of international visitors has also created concerns over inappropriate conduct.
Authorities have dealt with foreigners accused of disrespecting sacred locations, breaching local customs, disregarding road regulations and creating communities that exclude local residents.
Officials have consequently pledged to increase monitoring of international tourists and impose tougher measures against visitors who violate Bali’s laws and cultural traditions.
By: Magdalene Agyeiwaa Sarpong