What are the restrictions imposed by the Sharia law in Aceh, Sumatra?

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What is Sharia law in Indonesia?

Aceh is the only part of Indonesia to apply Sharia to criminal law. Islamic courts in Aceh had long handled cases of marriage, divorce and inheritance. After special autonomy legislation was passed in 2001, the reach of courts extend to criminal justice.

Does Indonesia follow Sharia law?

This province in Indonesia's extreme west is the only one where Sharia law is officially practiced in the country. The controversial Islamic legal code was first introduced in 2001, after the capital, Jakarta, granted more autonomy to the region in an attempt to appease rebels who were waging a long-term insurgency.

What are the principles of Sharia law?

Among the primary aims of the Sharia are the achievement of justice, fairness and mercy. The five major goals of the Sharia are the protection of sound religious practice, life, sanity, the family, and personal and communal wealth.

Is Aceh Islamic?

Muslims in Aceh are generally more religious than those in other parts of Indonesia, and are proud of their Islamic heritage, earning the province the nickname of "Verandah of Mecca" (Indonesian: serambi Mekkah). More than 98% of Aceh's population identify as Muslim.

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Whipped in Public: Sharia Law in Indonesia's Aceh Province (On Assignment)

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