No, carrying a sword in public in Indonesia is generally prohibited under the Firearms and Sharp Weapons Control Law (Law No. 12/2022) and local police regulations. Exceptions exist for ceremonial or cultural purposes with prior approval from the National Police Chief or regional authorities, but unauthorized possession risks confiscation or criminal charges.
Key Regulations for Carrying a Sword in Public in Indonesia
- Firearms and Sharp Weapons Control Law (2022): Prohibits public carry of bladed weapons exceeding 10 cm in length without a valid permit, classifying them as “controlled sharp tools.”
- National Police Chief Regulation No. 12/2023: Mandates prior notification to local police for ceremonial or cultural events, with permits issued only to registered cultural groups or martial arts organizations.
- Regional Ordinances: Some provinces (e.g., Aceh, Yogyakarta) impose stricter rules, requiring additional permits from provincial police or cultural heritage agencies.
Violations may result in administrative fines, confiscation, or criminal prosecution under Article 29 of Law No. 12/2022, with penalties up to 2 years imprisonment. Tourists and expatriates are not exempt; unauthorized carry is treated as a serious offense.