Celebrating Idul Fitri, Building Solidarity

Idul Fitri is a time for us to build our hopes for an end to the pandemic through our efforts, starting from the top leaders to the common people, to discipline ourselves to adhere to health protocols.

KOMPAS/ADITYA PUTRA PERDANA

Muslims pray in congregation at the Astana Sultan Hadlirin Mosque or the Mantingan Mosque, in Mantingan Village, Tahunan District, Jepara Regency, Central Java, Tuesday (11/5/2021). The mosque, which was built in 1559, is an acculturation of Chinese, Javanese, Islamic, Hindu-Buddhist culture. The mosque is called the second oldest in Central Java after the Great Mosque of Demak.

This year, we celebrate Idul Fitri with a mixed feeling. We are happy because we have finished Ramadan, and we are concerned because the pandemic has not ended.

Idul Fitri falls on Thursday, May 13. Muslims are happy because they can complete their 30-day fast. The fast of refraining from material and spiritual lust is over. Usually, Idul Fitri is greeted happily with a cultural ritual known as mudik (exodus), when people travel to their hometowns, visit their parents’ houses and meet relatives. However, not this time.