This section provides security recommendations specific to the Indonesia region. It only covers areas where FCDO has specific recommendations.
You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.
Aceh
Aceh has emerged from a long period of internal conflict. While violence against foreigners is rare, a British national was kidnapped in 2013 and three more incidents against foreigners occurred in 2009. There have been reports of Islamic police harassment of foreigners.
Be alert to the risk of politically motivated violence. Be especially careful in remote areas. Keep up to date with local happenings and avoid crowds, especially political rallies.
Sharia law is valid in Aceh. See Safety and Security.
Central Sulawesi
The political situation in Central Sulawesi is unstable. Be especially careful in Palu, Poso and Tantenna. Be alert to the risk of politically motivated violence.
There have been clashes between Indonesian security forces and terrorists, including attacks against police and civilians in 2021. The clashes took place mainly in the Sigi, Parigi Moutong and Poso areas.
Maluku Province
Maluku province has experienced unrest and violence between different religious and tribal groups. Be especially careful in Ambon, including Pulau Haruku.
Papua
Papuan armed separatist groups are fighting for independence from Indonesia in the Papuan region. Since 2018, incidents of violence have increased. The Indonesian government has deployed significant security forces throughout the region, particularly in the Papua highlands, central Papua provinces and along the border with Papua New Guinea. There are frequent armed clashes between the Papuan separatist group, known as TPNPB-OPM, and government security forces, mainly in the Papuan highlands and central Papua.
The conflict resulted in the death of civilians, including foreigners. In 2020, a New Zealand national was shot dead and several Indonesian nationals were injured at a mining facility in the Papua Highlands province.
February 2023:
- A New Zealand national is abducted by separatist groups in Nduga, Papua Highlands province
- TPNPB-OPM releases statement saying foreigners in Papua region to be targeted
Papuan separatists have repeatedly attacked commercial aircraft serving remote communities through local small airports, particularly in the Papua Highlands and Central Papua provinces. This includes aircraft frequently used by foreigners and those working in the area as the only viable means of transportation.
Political tensions have also led to violent demonstrations in cities across Papua, which turned violent in a short period of time. Hear local advice to help you avoid possible demonstrations and political rallies. In areas where demonstrations are planned, internet communications may be shut down. Plan ahead in case you are affected.
If you are planning travel to Papua Highlands Province and Central Papua Province, please be aware that the security situation is unpredictable and can change rapidly, please take local advice to understand current tensions and how to reduce your personal risk.
In 2022, the Indonesian government passed new legislation to reform the governance and administration of the Papua region. The existing provinces of Papua and West Papua have been reorganized into 6 provinces, now called:
- Papua
- West Papua
- Central Papua
- Papua Plateau
- South Papua
- Southwest Papua
If you’ve been to the area before, be sure to check for an updated map.
The British government has no permanent presence in the region. Consular services are provided remotely from Jakarta. Hospital facilities in the area are limited. If you require urgent medical treatment, you may be taken to Darwin, Australia.
