[Nulgath]

The holy fasting month of Ramadan is expected to begin on May 27, and with it, the expected closure of many of Jakarta’s nightlife establishments.

Speaking to Kompas, Jakarta Tourism and Culture Agency secretary Jeje Nujarman announced that the city government would close night clubs (or “diskoteks” as the old-fashioned local media still call them), spas, massage parlors, and bars throughout Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.

“Mandatory closure from one day before Ramadan, during the month of Ramadan, during Eid a-Fitr, and one day after Eid al-Fitr,” Jeje told Kompas today.

The argument used to justify the closures, as it has always been every year, is to respect and not disturb Muslims from focusing on worship during the holy month.

However, there are a few exceptions. “Diskoteks” inside hotels rated 4-stars or more and which are located in a commercial area far away from houses, mosques, schools, and hospitals, may remain open.

Others, such as karaoke joints and bars with live music and/or pool tables will have their operating hours limited to 8:30pm – 1:30am.

Displays of eroticism or sensuality are still prohibited in places that remain open under the agency’s regulation, which explains why Hooters Jakarta has promised that their servers will dress more modestly (no orange short shorts) during Ramadan.

The regulation was approved by the Jakarta Tourism and Culture Agency head on May 16.