An Indonesian court has sentenced a Swiss tourist to one year in prison for uploading a video that was considered insulting to a Hindu festival in Bali.
Bali, home to a large Hindu population, observes Nyepi (Day of Silence), during which residents stay indoors, avoid entertainment and maintain quiet. The restrictions also apply to tourists, and the observance is held annually on March 19.
According to reports, the tourist, identified as Lucien Andrin, posted the video on Instagram during his visit this year. After it went viral on social media, a police complaint was filed, leading to his arrest and detention. Hotel staff had reportedly informed him about the festival rules when he arrived on the island.
During the hearing at the Denpasar court, he said he was unaware of the tradition and claimed he acted out of frustration over not getting food. He also apologised for his actions.
The court handed down a one-year jail term and ordered that the five months he had already spent in custody be counted toward the sentence.
