Celebrating Redemption: Indonesia's Free Tattoo Removal Drive during Ramzan

In Jakarta, a free tattoo removal program during Ramzan offers a chance for religious repentance. Organized by the Amil Zakat National Agency, it supports Muslims wishing to remove tattoos, perceived as altering their God-given bodies. The service highlights cultural attitudes associating tattoos with criminality and stigma, especially for women.

In Jakarta, Indonesia, a unique initiative during Ramzan is offering free tattoo removal services to Muslims seeking spiritual purification. The Amil Zakat National Agency launched this program in 2019, enabling those wishing to align more closely with Islamic tenets by erasing tattoos, which some believe deface the body given by God.

The program has seen nearly 3,000 participants, indicating a significant cultural shift as tattoos are often linked to gang affiliations or perceived immorality, particularly among women. The laser removal process, although costly and not always completely effective, is providing an accessible solution for many.

Mohammad Asep Wahyudi, a coordinator of the event, emphasizes that many participants cannot afford the high cost of tattoo removal, often reaching thousands of dollars. This initiative not only facilitates personal repentance but also challenges prevailing cultural norms regarding body art.

(With inputs from agencies.)