Central Java Bans Roving Takbir, Ganjar: Directed At Mosques Only

Ganjar Pranowo (Photo via Central Java Provincial Government)

SEMARANG - Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo forbade the implementation of traveling takbir on the night of Eid 2022. This appeal is legalized through a Circular that will be issued by the Regional Secretary of Central Java Province.

"Religious instructors in the field convey that the organizers of Eid prayers everywhere should be prepared by special officers so that the process is carried out well," said Ganjar at the Central Java Provincial Forkopimda Meeting at the Gradhika Bhakti Praja Building, Wednesday 27 April.

Head of the Regional Office of the Ministry of Religion for Central Java, Musta'in Ahmad said, in general, Ramadan worship in Central Java was carried out properly in accordance with the guidelines stipulated in the Circular Letter of the Minister of Religion number 8 of 2022.

"Regarding that, the governor, if necessary, because this is an appeal, there may be a regulatory policy that allows an affirmation that is prohibitive in nature," he said.

Musta'in explained that this was in accordance with the guidelines in the Minister of Religion's SE number 8 of 2022, then the Instructions of the Minister of Home Affairs number 18 and 19 of 2022 and Presidential Decree 11 of 2020 regarding emergency conditions.

"Later, it needs to be conveyed to the public, Mr. Sekda, to prepare a letter to the regencies and cities, we ask that takbir be banned. The takbirs are directed at mosques, prayer rooms or their homes," said the Governor of Central Java, Ganjar Pranowo, responding directly to the proposal from the Head of Regional Office of the Central Java Ministry of Religion.

Ganjar said this policy needed to be taken to suppress the potential for crowds that were vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic. The socialization, said Ganjar, must be carried out jointly between the provincial and district city governments.

"The change from Ramadan to Eid is usually takbiran, I ask for no takbir around. Takbirnya all in the prayer room, mosque and their respective homes. We ask for help and assistance to support it,” said Ganjar.