The distribution of alcoholic beverages at a large-scale public event has once again disturbed the public’s sense of security. This incident is not only a violation of social norms but also a disregard for the halal values held dear by the majority of Indonesians.
Recently, the internet has been abuzz with the circulation of photos and videos showing complimentary alcoholic beverages being distributed at a running event in Bandung. In posts circulating on social media, banners displayed messages encouraging beer consumption, such as “Hurry Up!” accompanied by images of beer and “The Beers Getting Warm!” Several videos even showed participants drinking beer during the event.
In response, the President Director of LPPOM, Muti Arintawati, expressed her firm stance and total rejection of the promotion and distribution of illicit products in public spaces, especially at large-scale events involving the general public.
“We strongly condemn the distribution and promotion of alcoholic beverages in public activities like this. These actions not only violate halal values and the sanctity of public spaces, but also have the potential to undermine public trust in the organization of healthy, sporting, and welcoming events for all groups, especially Muslims,” Muti emphasized.
Furthermore, the LPPOM warned that the distribution of illicit products such as alcoholic beverages in public spaces is highly unethical in the context of Indonesian society, which is predominantly Muslim.
“Alcoholic beverages are clearly categorized as haram (forbidden) in Islamic teachings, and should not be part of public activities, let alone distributed freely. This has the potential to normalize alcohol consumption and blur the line between a healthy lifestyle and behavior that conflicts with Sharia values,” Muti added.
LPPOM also expressed its appreciation to halal literacy activists who actively voiced criticism of this incident. This critical stance demonstrates the strategic role of civil society in safeguarding public spaces to ensure they remain in line with the halal norms and ethics upheld by this nation.
LPPOM urges all parties—event organizers, sponsors, and communities—to take greater responsibility in developing event concepts. Activities that violate halal principles and have the potential to damage the morals of the younger generation must not be tolerated.
On this occasion, LPPOM also called for similar incidents to be prevented from happening again in the future. Public event organizers must ensure that all aspects of their activities comply with religious norms, social ethics, and applicable regulations.
Furthermore, the government needs to actively participate in monitoring product distribution. This is in line with the enactment of Act No. 33 of 2014 concerning Halal Product Assurance and its derivative regulations, most recently Government Regulation No. 42 of 2024.
Regulations regarding the control and supervision of alcoholic beverages are also stipulated in Presidential Regulation No. 74 of 2013 of the Republic of Indonesia. Article 7 states that alcoholic beverages may only be sold in hotels, bars, and restaurants that meet the requirements of tourism laws and regulations, duty-free shops, and specific locations designated by the Regent/Mayor, and Governor of the Special Capital Region of Jakarta.
The next point also emphasizes that Class A alcoholic beverages (containing 5% alcohol) may also be sold in retail stores in packaged form. However, sales of alcoholic beverages must be conducted separately from other merchandise.
According to the official Bandung City Government website, Bandung.go.id, the government has imposed an administrative fine of IDR 5 million as enforcement costs on Pace and Place. Meanwhile, the Free Runners Community is required to perform community service for two weeks to clean the Bandung City Hall area as a form of social sanction.
“LPPOM appreciates the Bandung City Government for taking the step of imposing these sanctions. However, we continue to urge the government to impose stricter sanctions, by halal regulations and consumer protection. This is to prevent the potential for similar incidents to recur,” Muti emphasized.
She also urged the public to always be careful and vigilant when selecting and accepting products, including free samples distributed at various public events. Not all products that appear “safe” at first glance comply with halal principles, which are valid according to Islamic law and religious fatwas.
LPPOM will remain committed to upholding the spirit of halal in this country. The halal principle is not just a label, but a comprehensive commitment to goodness, cleanliness, and health, which in turn will bring blessings to the lives of communities, especially Muslims. (YN)
