Pontianak enforces Ramadan rules: Nightclubs shut down for a full month

Pontianak, Thekabarnews.com—The Pontianak city administration has officially released Announcement Number 430/2026 to maintain peace and order in Pontianak City during Ramadan 1447 Hijri/2026.

Pontianak Mayor Edi Rusdi Kamtono said the policy shows that the city’s administration actively upholds public peace and respects religious values in the Equator City. In addition, he stressed that the purpose of the circular is to make sure that Muslims can fast in a safe, peaceful, and helpful setting.

“This announcement aims to keep public order and community peace during Ramadan so that Muslims can worship comfortably and solemnly,” Edi Kamtono said, Tuesday, February 17.

The Pontianak administration has put strict rules on how to classify businesses that provide entertainment and recreation under the new law.

During Ramadan, discotheques and nightclubs must stay closed. They can open again on the third day after Eid al-Fitr. Also, one day before Ramadan starts, public places of entertainment must close. They can then open again on the second day of fasting.

Businesses that are only open for a short time, like game stations, live music cafes, karaoke bars, billiard halls, and internet cafes, can only do business from 9:00 p.m. local time until their licensed closing time.

Mayor Edi Kamtono also talked about the traditional cannon game called meriam karbit, which residents can hold the night before Eid al-Fitr. However, organizers may only proceed if they prioritize environmental and public safety.

The Pontianak Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) head, Ahmad Sudiyantoro, said that his officers will regularly patrol to enforce the rule. In addition, they will be collaborating with the police to monitor the situation.

“We will put more emphasis on preventive and persuasive measures through outreach to the public. But if we find violations, we will act according to the rules that apply,” Sudiyantoro said.

The Ramadan policy demonstrates the efforts of the Pontianak city administration to maintain peace, permit religious practice, and support business operations during the holy month.