Swiss tourist jailed for violating Bali’s sacred Day of Silence
A Swiss tourist has been sentenced to one year in prison in Bali after violating restrictions during Nyepi, the Hindu Day of Silence, and posting a video that triggered widespread anger among residents.
Luzian Andrin Zgraggen, 26, was arrested in March after footage of him walking to an empty beach during Nyepi circulated on social media. The video was later removed.
Zgraggen’s actions had offended Balinese people, hurt their religious beliefs and caused public outrage, the presiding judge said, according to the Associated Press. The tourist told the court he had not understood the extent of the restrictions imposed during Nyepi and denied intending to insult the Balinese community.
«I deeply regret what I did, I apologise to the Balinese people,» he said in court, as reported by the Associated Press.
What happens during Nyepi in Bali
Nyepi is one of Bali’s most important religious observances and brings the normally busy tourist destination to a standstill for 24 hours.
People are expected to remain indoors and avoid activities that create noise or disturb the island’s atmosphere of silence. The rules apply to tourists as well as residents, regardless of their religion.
Tahun ke-3 di Bali, Nyepi pertama yang bisa lihat dengan lengkap Upacara Melasti, dikasih sunset super cantik ❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/2G31rTpcMC
— Eunike (@euniceapril) February 28, 2022
Bali’s airport closes during the observance while entertainment venues are shut and the use of electricity is restricted. Internet access is also suspended as part of the island-wide restrictions.
Locals generally prepare for the holiday in advance, buying food and other necessities so they do not need to leave their homes.
Foreign tourists face growing scrutiny
Zgraggen is not the first foreign visitor to face consequences for breaking Nyepi rules. Tourists have previously been detained or deported after violating restrictions during the religious observance.
Read more: Tommy Schaefer deported from Indonesia after 11 years in Bali jail
The case comes as Bali grapples with the consequences of a sharp recovery in international tourism. The island recorded about 7mn international arrivals last year, a record that has brought renewed economic activity but also increased concern over tourist behaviour.
In recent years, officials in Bali have become increasingly critical of the conduct of foreign visitors, which they see as disrespectful or disruptive. Previous cases have involved inappropriate conduct at religious sites, traffic infractions and disputes over foreigners setting up communities that largely run separate from local people.
