Jakarta – Jakarta police are investigating a viral video allegedly showing religious blasphemy during The Sounds Project music festival in Ancol, North Jakarta.

Jakarta Metro Police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Budi Hermanto said the incident allegedly occurred at the festival venue at around 10 p.m. local time on Sunday, August 9.

"To process the case, Pademangan Police have coordinated with the event organizer and the owner of the booth at the venue to support the legal process," Budi said, as quoted by Antara.

Police have scheduled clarification meetings with the event organizer and the master of ceremonies on Tuesday. Investigators will then complete the administrative requirements and conduct a case review to determine the next legal steps.

What happened?

The investigation follows a video that went viral on social media platform X showing a Newport booth conducting a challenge involving a festival attendee. Newport is an alcoholic beverage brand produced by Indonesian consumer goods company OT (Orang Tua Group).

In the video, the attendee appears to be challenged to recite Surah Ad-Duha, the 93rd chapter of the Quran, with a Newport alcoholic beverage offered as the prize for completing the challenge. The footage sparked accusations of religious blasphemy online.

The event organizer has since apologized through its official social media account and expressed regret over the incident, saying the challenge was conducted without its direction or approval.

Police have also opened a channel for members of the public who wish to file official reports concerning the incident.

Authorities have not announced any suspects or determined whether the incident constitutes a criminal offense. Police are expected to assess statements from the event organizer, MC and other relevant parties before deciding how to proceed with the case.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/2117222/police-probe-alleged-religious-blasphemy-at-jakarta-music-festiva