PIKIRAN RAKYAT - The Immigration Office in Denpasar, Bali, has investigated two Polish foreign nationals (FNs) who went viral on social media for breaking customary rules on Nyepi Day, on March 22, 2023. In a viral video on social media, the two Polish people were seen arguing with traditional village security officers (pecalang) in Sukawati, Gianyar, for refusing to follow Balinese customs during Nyepi.

The pecalang were seen in the video explaining to the FNs that during Nyepi, all activities outside the house or accommodation are prohibited, with the exception of the pecalang, who can patrol and carry out activities outside.

However, the FNs refused to comply with the pecalang's request, claiming that they had nowhere to stay. They said that they were on a low-budget vacation in Bali as backpackers. As a result, the Sukawati Police in Gianyar, Bali, finally arrested and detained the two FNs and handed them over to immigration.

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The initial examination showed that the two FNs, named Karol Grabinski and Barbara Karina Walczak, entered Indonesia using a Visa on Arrival (VoA). Their stay permits are valid until March 29, 2023.

Regarding this case, immigration has not been able to provide further information because Karol and Barbara are still under investigation.

The Head of the Regional Office of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights in Bali, Anggiat Napitupulu, said in his written statement in Denpasar on Thursday, March 23, 2023, that immigration would take strict action against FNs who violate the legal and customary rules in Indonesia, especially on the Island of the Gods.

Anggiat Napitupulu also said that the enforcement of the two Polish FNs was the result of cooperation between Pecalang Desa Adat Sukawati, Sukawati Police, and the local immigration office.

"I want to thank the pecalang and the Sukawati Police."I hope that such cooperation will be enhanced in the future. Report to immigration immediately if any FNs are found violating the rules. "In accordance with the applicable regulations, we will take strict action against those FNs," Anggiat said.

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Nyepi Day Requires Everyone to Remain Still

Nyepi is a Hindu holiday celebrated every Saka New Year.  One of the places in Indonesia that is most closely associated with Nyepi is Bali.  The Nyepi celebration in Bali is thought to be the best time to see the other side of the never-quiet Island of the Gods.

During the Nyepi celebration, the normally bustling Island comes to a halt for the entire day.This solemn atmosphere is related to the rule that requires Balinese people to stay at home.

Even during Nyepi Day, people are not allowed to turn on lights or fire. However, what is rarely known to those outside Bali is the series of traditional ceremonies before and after the Nyepi celebration. There are many traditional ceremonies held to welcome Nyepi Day in Bali.***