An Indonesian court convicts a Swiss tourist for violating Day of Silence restrictions in Bali

The Denpasar District Court convicted Luzian Andrin Zahrajin, 26 years old, under the provisions of the new Indonesian Criminal Code, on the grounds that he published messages and video clips on social media sites regarding the “Nyepi” Day of Silence, which is a Hindu religious event that is usually held in March, during which residents and visitors commit to staying in their homes or places of residence, along with silence and meditation.

The court said that Zahrajeen published these contents despite informing employees at his place of residence of the restrictions imposed during the day of silence.

Chief Justice Tjokorda Putra Budi said that the defendant's actions insulted the people of Bali and their beliefs and sparked public anger, adding that he must bear responsibility for his actions.

Zahrajeen had posted content on his Instagram account in which he bragged about defying the restrictions imposed during the Day of Silence, which prohibit residents and visitors from leaving their homes or places of residence, except in cases of emergency.

In one of the video clips, the Swiss tourist appeared smiling in front of the camera, and talked about his walk on the beach during the day of silence, while in another clip he described the ritual as crazy, and also used an offensive word against her.