A Swiss tourist, Luzian Andrin Zgraggen, 26, has been sentenced to a year in jail after being convicted of insulting a religious observance in Bali. Mr Zgraggen was found guilty at the Denpasar district court on Thursday, August 21, for filming himself on an empty beach during Nyepi, Bali's sacred Day of Silence, and posting it online.
The incident occurred earlier this year during Nyepi, an annual Hindu new year celebration on the Indonesian island where locals and visitors are expected to stay indoors, turn off lights, and make no noise. The court determined that Mr Zgraggen made the posts after villa staff had informed him of the restrictions.
Indonesia's new criminal code, which came into effect in January 2026, was cited in his conviction. The UK's Foreign Office and travel association Abta advise travellers to research and respect local laws and customs when visiting other countries.
During Nyepi, Ngurah Rai International Airport closes, most taxis do not operate, and roads are empty. Shops, businesses, and restaurants are shut, and internet and mobile services may be restricted. Hotels remain open, but guests must stay inside, with outdoor activities usually limited.