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Ramadan in Indonesia

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Fred

Indonesia is a mainly Muslim country so most people will be fasting over the next month.
Whilst there's nothing stopping non Muslims eating during daylight hours it is considered a little rude so I recommend you eat in places with curtains up so the locals can't see you.
Most restaurants will be open as normal but a lot will close until later in the day because they won't sell much the rest of the time so there's no point.
Chains such as McD just pull blinds down over the windows and open normally.

Most massage places and some karaoke joints will be closed if the usual pattern is followed because many are just fronts for prostitution. The real places will remain open, especially the ladies' only health spas.

The local extremist groups have been emboldened by the Ahok trial and they've already committed one set of murders in Jakarta so keep an eye out for people acting strangely, especially if they're carrying a backpack.
Pressure cooker bombs are the new weapon of choice so they should be easy enough to spot.
Armed coppers are patrolling potential targets such as churches but the extremists are like rats, they get everywhere and you can't get them all.

It is better if you eat and drink in private at your place of work if possible. Apart from showing respect for the Muslim staff it will do your reputation a lot of good.

See also

Living in Indonesia: the expat guideAmateur radio in IndonesiaCost of living in Indonesia in 2025Monkey Forest UbudNew members of the Indonesia forum, introduce yourselves here - 2025
yunisweetgirl

I'm now in my country Indonesia, go home leave for Ramadan fasting.
I think the rules of restaurants closed with curtains have long been in effect. It is to honour our Religion which is majority in our country that is Islam.
About the Bar, or place of prostitution and the ++ place automatically close in honour of Ramadan.
But yesterday just happened Kp.Melayu bomb incident before Ramadan has tarnish the meaning of holiness Ramadan it self. From act impossible person,  I don't know the target, who and for what...??? but never let the police do it.  ( unfortunately the location is closed to my old house ).
I think for an Expat friends don't have to worry and be afraid of the incident, but remains vigilant in public areas.
For non Muslim or Expat friends it better to bring their own provisions.
Cuz ' Untukmu bagimu Agamamu dan Untukku bagiku Agamaku '
Mean for you.. For you Religion and For me.. For me Religion..
All Religion equally teach goodness to fellow human being..
Peace greeting for everything....

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