Jakarta (ANTARA) – Jakarta Metropolitan Police are investigating a suspected case of blasphemy against Islam at a recent music festival in Ancol, North Jakarta.
The Jakarta Police public relations chief, Senior Commissioner Budi Hermanto, confirmed Tuesday that authorities are probing the incident, which occurred at “The Sounds Project” festival on Sunday, Aug. 9, around 10 p.m. local time.
“Pademangan local police are coordinating with the event organizer and the booth owner to build the case,” Hermanto stated.
Investigators on Tuesday summoned both the event organizer and a festival host for questioning as they gather evidence.
Police also welcomed members of the public who wish to file formal reports regarding the incident.
The controversy arose after an alcoholic beverage promotional booth at the music festival offered free drinks to attendees who completed a challenge.
A video went viral on social media showing a participant reciting a chapter of the Quran from memory to receive the drink, sparking widespread outrage.
Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited under Islamic law.
Responding to the backlash, organizers of “The Sounds Project” issued an apology on social media, explaining that the challenge was unauthorized and conducted without their knowledge.
“We have never tolerated and will never tolerate any blasphemous acts or other actions that offend ethnic, religious, or communal sentiments by any party involved in our event, including sponsors and partners,” the organizers said in a statement.
Translator: Ilham Kausar, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
Copyright © ANTARA 2026