Aceh is a semi-autonomous region and the only one in Indonesia that’s allowed to implement sharia law. So if there’s any area in Indonesia that would ban concerts, it would be Aceh.

Yesterday, West Aceh Regent Teuku Alaidinsyah announced that concerts are banned in the region because they are against sharia principles.

“The ban on music concerts in West Aceh was due to recommendation from ulemas (clerics) who feel that there is more harm than benefits in concerts,” said Alaidinsyah, as quoted by Kompas today.

That said, not all live music in West Aceh is banned – Alaidinsyah said that small gigs are still allowed in cafes.

This ban came following the West Aceh Regency Council’s prohibition of a gig by local singer Bergek in the regency.

To each region their own, we suppose, but we can’t help but feel sorry for those who live in the regency who can no longer enjoy going to a concert because some clerics said so.

Grove: Coconuts Brand Studio

Fast. Funny. Digital. We produce creativity that delights and influences customers. Join forces with us to slay buzzwords, rise above the noise, and sow the seeds of something great.