Editorial Note:
This article is part of the long-standing Living in Indonesia series, written by expats, for expats, sharing practical insights to help newcomers adjust smoothly to life in Indonesia.
Moving into a new home in Indonesia brings many rewards—community, culture, and a rich daily rhythm of life. One aspect that many newcomers notice, especially in urban and residential areas, is the call to prayer (adzan), which is broadcast from local mosques multiple times a day using loudspeakers.
For many, this becomes a meaningful part of the cultural experience. For others—particularly those not accustomed to amplified early morning or evening sound—it can take some adjustment.
This article offers practical, respectful strategies to help you adapt comfortably while maintaining positive relationships within your community.
Before You Sign a Lease: Do a Sound Check
Before committing to a property, visit the area at different times of day—particularly early morning and evening—to understand the local sound environment.
In many neighborhoods, multiple mosques may broadcast simultaneously, which can increase overall volume depending on proximity and acoustics.
What this means for expats:
Take a few minutes to:
- Stand inside the home with windows closed
- Visit during early morning (before sunrise)
- Check surrounding streets for nearby mosques
This simple step can prevent surprises later.
Understanding the Context (Important for Cultural Awareness)
The call to prayer is a central and meaningful part of daily life in Muslim communities. It occurs five times a day and serves as a reminder for worship.
In Indonesia, with hundreds of thousands of mosques, sound levels can vary due to:
- Equipment quality
- Speaker placement
- Local practices
- Overlapping broadcasts in dense areas
In Indonesia, there are guidelines regarding appropriate sound levels for mosque loudspeakers. However, as in many countries, implementation and consistency can vary from one neighborhood to another, and these guidelines are not always strictly observed in daily practice.
For many expats, this is not a long-term concern, as most people gradually become accustomed to the rhythm of the call to prayer. However, for light sleepers or those not familiar with amplified religious broadcasts, the volume and timing—particularly in the early morning—can take some adjustment.
What this means for expats:
When choosing accommodation, it is worth factoring in:
- Your sensitivity to sound
- The proximity of nearby mosques
- The likelihood of overlapping broadcasts in dense areas
Expat Tip:
Approach this topic with cultural sensitivity and respect. Your neighbors are not “making noise”—they are practicing their faith.
Practical Ways to Reduce Noise Impact
If you are already living near a mosque and finding the sound challenging, here are effective, non-confrontational strategies:
1. Improve Sound Insulation
- Install double-glazed or soundproof windows
- Seal gaps around doors and frames
- Use draft blockers
2. Use Soft Furnishings Strategically
- Heavy curtains
- Rugs and upholstered furniture
These can significantly reduce sound reflection and penetration.
3. Introduce White Noise
- White noise machines
- Fans or air purifiers
- Soft background audio
These help mask sudden sound spikes and improve sleep quality.
4. Sleep Adjustments
- Earplugs (highly effective for light sleepers)
- Adjust sleep schedule if needed, especially during Ramadan, when activity increases
On Community Interaction (Very Important)
Avoid confrontation.
Approaching a mosque directly about volume—especially in a forceful or frustrated manner—can lead to misunderstandings or tension. Community harmony is highly valued in Indonesia.
Instead:
- Build relationships with neighbors
- Approach concerns indirectly and respectfully (if at all)
- Maintain a calm and understanding approach
What works better:
A friendly relationship within your neighborhood often leads to mutual understanding and consideration over time.
Seasonal Considerations: Ramadan
During the month of Ramadan:
- Broadcasts may begin earlier
- Additional prayers and announcements may occur
- Overall activity increases
This is temporary and part of an important religious period.
Long-Term Perspective
Many expats report that:
- The sound becomes less noticeable over time
- It becomes part of the “rhythm” of daily life
- Some even miss it after leaving Indonesia
Balanced Perspective: Noise vs Culture
Globally, amplified calls to prayer are a common part of religious expression. In Indonesia, efforts have been made in recent years to encourage better sound management and clarity while maintaining religious practices.
Final Thoughts
Living in Indonesia means experiencing a culture that is deeply rooted in community and faith. The call to prayer is not just sound—it is a reflection of that identity.
With preparation, understanding, and a few practical adjustments, most expats find they can adapt comfortably while gaining a deeper appreciation of the environment around them.
