Hendrik Yaputra, Jakarta – Indonesian Religious Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Anna Hasbie, clarified that the ministry has never imposed any prohibition on the use of loudspeakers in mosques and prayer rooms during Ramadan.

She said the ministry had only issued a guideline on the use of loudspeakers. "We have never issued such a ban," Anna said on Tuesday, March 12.

She further elaborated that the ministry had indeed released a guideline on the use of loudspeakers in mosques during the holy month of fasting, but that it was merely a suggestion to promote tolerance and respect for the diversity of the country's society.

"This [guideline] also aims to respect Muslims who are unwell," Anna added.

The guideline is contained in Circular Letter No. 05 of 2022, which was passed on February 18, 2022. It is noted that the management of prayer houses is advised to use loudspeakers inside during Ramadan, for tarawih prayers, lecturers, or Quran recitation.

Although it is only a suggestion, the circular is binding on several parties, including the offices of the Ministry of Religious Affairs at the district and city levels. These offices are urged to provide guidance and supervision related to the policy.

"This circular is not a legal norm. It is not mandatory, but it is binding on the parties mentioned in the letter," Anna remarked.

This clarification was provided in response to a recent lecture given by a religious figure, Gus Miftah, in Sidoarjo, East Java, who highlighted the ban on using loudspeakers to recite the Quran in mosques during Ramadan. He compared this to the use of loudspeakers for dangdut or music shows, which were not banned even if they lasted until 1 a.m.

Tempo attempted to contact Gus Miftah for further comment on this matter. However, Tempo has not yet received any response.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/1844190/religious-affairs-ministry-says-no-ban-on-use-of-mosque-loudspeaker