After discussions about future penalties for unmarried couples in Indonesia, the government is trying to limit damage to the tourism industry. Foreign visitors holidaying together in Indonesia need not fear prosecution for sex or cohabitation outside of marriage, Deputy Justice Minister Edward Hiariej said Monday.
According to the draft law, the police can only investigate if a family member reports the crime, such as the parents of an unmarried person. These provisions would prevent local authorities or law enforcement from pursuing unmarried couples living together, Hiariej added.
Up to a year in prison
The background to this is legal reforms in the world’s most populous Muslim country, which were approved by parliament last week. When it comes into force in 2025, the legal situation for unmarried couples will be drastically tightened: sex outside marriage will be banned and punishable by up to a year in prison. Unmarried people are no longer allowed to live together. Human rights activists criticize the planned law as a deep violation of citizens’ rights and freedoms.
Marital status of visitors remains confidential
Bali Governor Wayan Koster emphasized on Sunday that the provincial government will continue to keep data on the marital status of visitors confidential and will not be asked to do so upon arrival at accommodations on the popular holiday island. After more than two loss-making years of the pandemic, Indonesia’s tourism industry – especially with Bali as its top destination – is hoping for many holidaymakers for the upcoming Christmas and New Year period.
Source: Krone
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