Paradise Island, Predatory Practices -- Stay Sharp
Sorted by probability — city-level locations, avg loss amounts, and prevention scripts included. Updated 2024-2025.
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Drug laws carry the death penalty. A new criminal code (2023) criminalizes sex outside marriage and insults to the President -- enforcement against tourists is unclear but the laws exist.
Indonesia has mandatory death penalty for drug trafficking. Possession of 5g+ cannabis: up to 12 years. Any amount of methamphetamine, heroin, or cocaine: prosecution is aggressive. The Bali Nine case (Australian nationals executed in 2015) is the reference point. Zero tolerance -- no exceptions for medical use.
Indonesia's new criminal code (KUHP) effective December 2025 criminalizes sex outside marriage with up to 1 year imprisonment. Enforcement against tourists is currently uncertain but the law is on the books. Hotels may face pressure to enforce this. Monitor travel advisories.
New criminal code criminalizes insulting the President or Vice President with up to 3 years. Social media posts made while in Indonesia are subject to this law. The Electronic Information and Transactions (ITE) law has been used against foreigners for online speech.
Sarong and sash are mandatory at all Hindu temples in Bali. Some temples also require covered shoulders. Renting is available at temple entrances. Entering incorrectly dressed is considered religious desecration and can result in fines.
| Drug possession (cannabis) | Up to 12 years imprisonment |
| Drug trafficking | Death penalty |
| Alcohol without permit (Aceh province) | Public caning (yes, really) |
| Temple dress code violation | Fine + removal from temple |
| Overstaying visa | USD 20/day + deportation |
The new 2023 criminal code is being phased in through 2025-2026. Monitor your government's travel advisory specifically for Indonesia before travel as enforcement norms are still being established.
This is general travel information, not legal advice. Laws change -- verify with your government's official travel advisory and local legal counsel before travel. US: travel.state.gov · UK: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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