Indonesian Group Demands Police Probe Alcohol Ad Linked to Quran

The Indonesian branch of the Jamiyyah Ahlith Thariqah Al Mu’tabarah An Nahdliyyah (JATMAN DKI Jakarta) has called on the police to investigate a promotional video for Newport alcoholic beverages that has gone viral on social media. The video is controversial because it links the promotion of alcohol to the Quranic chapter Ad-Dhuha.

Mudir of JATMAN DKI Jakarta, Ustadz Irawan Santoso Shiddiq, stated that law enforcement must address the case promptly, viewing the video's actions as an insult to sacred Islamic symbols. "The police must immediately arrest the perpetrators of this corporate blasphemy, as they have committed blasphemy, the evidence is clear," Irawan told reporters on Tuesday.

JATMAN's objection extends beyond the promotion of alcoholic drinks to Muslims. The primary concern is the use of Quranic verses in connection with the product promotion. "This is a double insult: promoting alcohol to Muslims, and then using the Quran in exchange for alcohol; this is highly disrespectful," he said. Irawan believes accountability should not stop with individuals in the video but should extend to the company involved in planning and executing the promotion.

"This is a corporate crime involving a company that sells alcohol and deliberately and consciously promotes it by disrespecting the Quran," he stated. JATMAN DKI Jakarta requested that the authorities identify those responsible and determine if criminal elements are present under applicable law. Irawan also urged swift handling of the case to prevent broader public unrest.

"Police must act quickly as law enforcement, do not be negligent to the point of inciting public anger due to acts of religious blasphemy," he urged.