Vincentius Alvin Yoga
Mar 13, 2026
Every year, Bali observes Nyepi, a sacred Hindu holiday marking the Balinese New Year. Unlike typical celebrations, Nyepi is observed with complete silence across the island. For 24 hours, streets are empty, airports close, businesses shut down, and residents stay indoors to observe Catur Brata Penyepian, the four main restrictions that include no travel, no work, no entertainment, and no fire or lights.
Authorities have confirmed that during Nyepi 2026, all mobile data services and local broadcasts will be temporarily shut down.
For years, Bali has also implemented temporary internet and broadcast restrictions to support the solemn atmosphere of the day. As Nyepi approaches on 19 March 2026, many visitors are once again asking the same question: will internet access still be available during the Day of Silence?
As Bali prepares for the sacred day of Nyepi in 2026, authorities have confirmed that all mobile data services and local broadcasts will be temporarily shut down, while WiFi internet access will remain available.
Mobile Data and Broadcasts to Be Suspended
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Indonesia’s Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Meutya Hafid, has issued a circular instructing all broadcasting institutions in Bali to stop transmissions during Nyepi on 19 March 2026.
The policy is outlined in the Ministerial Circular No. 2 of 2026, which calls for support in maintaining the solemn atmosphere of Nyepi celebrations in the province. Mobile network operators are also asked to temporarily suspend cellular data services during the observance.
Meutya explained that the circular was issued based on a letter from the Bali Regional Secretary regarding the deactivation of cellular data and the suspension of television broadcasts during Nyepi. The decision also refers to a joint statement from the Forum Kerukunan Umat Beragama regarding the implementation of Nyepi in 2026, which coincides with the Takbiran night before Eid al-Fitr.
The suspension will take place from 6 AM on Thursday, 19 March 2026, until 6 AM on Friday, 20 March 2026, covering television, radio, and mobile data access.
WiFi Services Will Remain Available
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Despite the shutdown of cellular networks, WiFi connections that operate through fiber-optic networks will remain active.
According to Gde Wirakusuma Wahyudi from the Communication, Information, and Statistics Office of Denpasar, maintaining WiFi connectivity is necessary to ensure the stability of essential public services, including hospitals, security posts, police stations, fire departments, and other emergency units.
WiFi access will also allow non-Hindu residents and visitors to stay informed through digital information channels during the day.
Policy Supports the Observance of Catur Brata Penyepian
Image source: Freepik
Authorities emphasized that the restriction only applies to individual cellular data services and local broadcast institutions. The policy aims to give Hindus in Bali the space to observe Catur Brata Penyepian, the four main prohibitions during Nyepi, in a more focused and solemn manner.
The decision follows recommendations from the Forum Kerukunan Umat Beragama and coordination between the Bali Provincial Government, the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, and mobile network operators.
Internet Access Still Available for Emergencies
Image source: Freepik
Head of Bali’s Communication and Information Office, Gede Pramana, explained that allowing household WiFi access will not diminish the spiritual essence of Nyepi.
He added that most Hindus observing the day typically refrain from using the internet anyway. However, keeping the network available ensures that people can still communicate and access important information, particularly for urgent needs such as medical services.
Overall, the policy seeks to balance respect for Bali’s spiritual tradition with the practical needs of public safety and essential services during the 24-hour Day of Silence.
