Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. Indonesia law
Cannabis laws in Medan follow Indonesia’s national law. For travelers, the jurisdiction’s law is the controlling standard—cities usually don’t define cannabis legality.
Recreational and medical cannabis are illegal. Enforcement is strict, and penalties for possession can be severe. Travelers face significant legal risk.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal
- Medical: Not available
- Possession: Illegal; severe penalties possible
- Buying/Selling: Illegal
- Tourists: High enforcement risk
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products. Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Law Enforcement
Smoking privately felt less conspicuous in this account. There was talk of police demanding Rp100,000–200,000 (then US$11–22) over an ounce, or as much as Rp1,000,000 (about US$120) for a kilo. The fear was being taken to the station.
Where to Buy Marijuana
Mesjid Raya, the large mosque, was the landmark. At cafés behind it, people offered all sorts of things. Talk of ganja moved the conversation into a dark alley away from the café and the mosque. The bud was said to come from Aceh or other plantations.
Marijuana Prices
- About Rp100,000 for an ounce, quoted at US$11 at the time.
- The kilo price was said to rise from Rp1,000,000 to Rp2,000,000 (then about US$110 to US$225) when fuel prices doubled.
Types of Marijuana
Mostly sticks and seeds, despite being offered as buds.