Religious foundation condemns Quran challenge with alcohol prizes at Jakarta concert

Dailami Firdaus, chairman of the As-Syafi’iyah Islamic Education Foundation, has strongly condemned an alleged Quran reading challenge that reportedly offered alcoholic beverages as prizes during The Sounds Project music concert in North Jakarta. Firdaus, also a Regional Representative Council (DPD) senator for Jakarta, stated that if the allegations are true, the act constitutes a "grave insult" and "unacceptable" offense against religious symbols and values.

"This is very concerning and cannot be considered a joke or mere creativity in an event," Firdaus said in a statement. He emphasized that the Quran is a holy book that must be treated with the utmost respect. "Offering alcoholic beverages as a prize in a Quran reading challenge is a highly inappropriate act," he asserted.

Firdaus urged law enforcement agencies, in collaboration with the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), to promptly investigate the facts on the ground. This includes identifying the organizers, involved parties, the event's purpose, and how such an activity could occur at the Ancol area. "It must be thoroughly investigated. Do not stop at an apology or clarification on social media. If the investigation finds intent to insult religion, there must be firm sanctions according to applicable laws," he stated.

He stressed that legal proceedings should be objective, ensuring all facts and criminal elements are confirmed. Firdaus believes that if the alleged act was intentional and constitutes a legal violation, it should be treated with the same seriousness as past religious blasphemy cases. He also called on the Governor of DKI Jakarta to evaluate the oversight system for events in the Ancol area, holding PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol, the BUMD managing the area, responsible for ensuring activities comply with regulations and do not offend religious sensitivities.