Yes, pepper spray is legal in Indonesia but classified as a restricted weapon under the 2021 Police Regulation No. 2 of 2021. Civilian possession requires a permit from the Indonesian National Police (Kepolisian Negara Republik Indonesia), with issuance contingent on proof of self-defense necessity and a clean criminal record. Unlicensed carry risks confiscation under the 2002 Firearms and Ammunition Act, which penalizes unauthorized possession of “lethal or non-lethal defensive tools.”
Key Regulations for Pepper Spray in Indonesia
- Permit Mandate: Only non-lethal pepper spray with a maximum OC concentration of 10% is permitted; civilian permits are issued by local police precincts under strict vetting.
- Prohibited Variants: Industrial-grade or high-concentration sprays exceeding 10% OC, or those marketed as “military-grade,” are classified as illegal weapons under the 2021 regulation.
- Usage Restrictions: Deployment is permitted solely for self-defense against imminent threats; use against law enforcement or in altercations without provocation constitutes assault under the Indonesian Penal Code (KUHP).
Recent 2026 compliance shifts under the National Police’s Surat Edaran No. SE/03/III/2026 have tightened permit renewals, requiring annual psychological evaluations for applicants. Foreigners may obtain permits via sponsorship from an Indonesian resident or employer, subject to reciprocity agreements. Violations, including unregistered possession or improper use, are prosecuted under Law No. 12 of 2022 on Cybercrime and Public Order, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.