Ministry Of Religion Publishes Guidelines For The Commemoration Of The Great Day Of Religion

Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil Quomas alias Gus Yaqut (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Religion has issued guidelines for commemorating religious holidays during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is to reduce the risk of transmission of the corona virus in the implementation of religious activities.

"Our guidelines are published in order to prevent and break the chain of the spread of COVID-19 while at the same time providing a sense of security and comfort to the community in organizing the commemoration of the Prophet's Birthday, Christmas, and other religious holidays during the COVID-19 pandemic," said Minister of Religion Yaqut Cholil. Qoumas as quoted in the ministry's press release received in Jakarta, reported by Antara, Friday, October 8.

The Minister of Religion said that the guidelines for the commemoration of religious holidays contained in the Circular Letter of the Minister of Religion Number 29 of 2021 were prepared by taking into account the conditions of transmission of the corona virus in the regions.

According to government guidelines, regions with Level 4 and Level 3 pandemic statuses are recommended to hold virtual religious holidays.

In Level 3 and 4 areas, face-to-face religious observances may only be held in open spaces by implementing health protocols.

The activity can only be attended by residents from the local area and the amount is a maximum of 50 percent of the total room capacity.

In this case, event organizers are required to provide officers to supervise the implementation of health protocols, check participants' body temperatures, regulate distance, and provide backup masks and various supporting equipment for implementing health protocols.

In areas with Level 2 and Level 1 pandemic status, commemoration of religious holidays may be carried out face-to-face by implementing strict health protocols. worship and other places to facilitate the tracking of cases of COVID-19 transmission.

According to government regulations, residents aged 60 years and over and those who are pregnant are advised not to participate in religious activities that are attended by many people.

In addition, the government banned the holding of parades to commemorate religious holidays.

"It is forbidden to conduct parades or processions in the context of celebrating religious holidays that involve a large number of participants," said the Minister of Religion.