Four suspects named in Indonesia Quran challenge-for-alcohol case

Police in Jakarta have identified four suspects in connection with a controversial Quran memorization challenge offered in exchange for alcoholic beverages at The Sounds Project music festival. The incident, which occurred in Ancol, North Jakarta, has sparked outrage and prompted an investigation into alleged offenses against religion and belief.

Authorities have charged individuals identified by the initials RES, AK, I, and M under Indonesia's Criminal Code, which addresses offenses related to religion and belief. According to preliminary investigations, suspect RES, who served as the event's host, was allegedly involved in interactions at the booth. Suspects I and AK are accused of challenging visitors to recite Surat Al-Ikhlas and Surat Ad-Dhuha, with a bottle of alcohol as the prize.

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We as event organizers are also angry, disappointed, and condemn this behavior. We have never, and will never, condone behavior that uses religion as a challenge or product promotion in any form.

Suspect M reportedly recited Surat Ad-Dhuha over a loudspeaker. Police have interviewed five complainants and several witnesses, including festival management and attendees. Evidence seized includes five flash drives containing digital recordings and the clothing worn by RES and AK during the event. RES and AK were arrested on August 12, 2026, and have been detained.

The festival organizers, The Sounds Project, issued a statement condemning the incident. They emphasized that they do not condone using religion for challenges or product promotions and stated the event was outside their direction, approval, and control. The controversy gained traction after videos of the promotion went viral on social media, showing a booth offering alcohol for reciting Quranic verses.

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We emphasize that this incident was entirely outside our direction, approval, and control as event organizers.