Less than two weeks before the fasting month of Ramadan begins, locals in Pamekasan district, East Java, are being encouraged to dress "properly" to respect the holy month, including while exercising.

"People should wear clothes that are aligned with the holiness of Ramadan, including for those who participate in aerobic sessions at the public park every Sunday," Pamekasan district head Kholilurrahman said on Tuesday.

The district government has said it will issue official instructions related to the Ramadan dress code, however, it is unclear what sanctions could or would be imposed on residents deemed in violation of the code.

"There are also number of other things we want to tell the people in the instruction letter," Kholilurrahman said.

Food sellers in the district will be advised to close their businesses during the day in keeping with the month's fasting requirement for Muslims, he said, and nightlife establishments such as karaoke parlors will be closed for the entire month.

"We will revoke the business permits of any places which disobey the instruction," Kholilurrahman said.