Apart From Banning Bukber Subordinates, Riau Islands Governor: Residents Break Fasting At Home Only, Can Buy Food But Packaged

KEPRI - Governor of the Riau Islands (Kepri) Ansar Ahmad appealed to his citizens to maintain health protocols while fasting during Ramadan and celebrating Eid 2022.

"Hopefully, people will be able to carry out the Ramadan worship service until Eid al-Fitr solemnly, and on the other hand, stay safe from the spread of COVID-19," he said in Tanjungpinang, Tuesday, March 29.

He invited residents to take advantage of the Holy Month of Ramadan 1443 Hijriah to improve the quality and quantity of acts of worship to Allah SWT.

"Let's forgive each other, hopefully this year's Ramadan will bring blessings to all of us, especially the people of the Riau Islands Province," said Ansar, who is also a former member of the DPR.

The governor also forbade officials from holding iftar together during Ramadan until an open house on the upcoming Eid al-Fitr to prevent crowds of people because of the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

He said the ban was in accordance with the Circular of the Cabinet Secretariat (Seskab) of the Republic of Indonesia which was handed down to the local government.

"Mr. President Jokowi has also conveyed the ban on breaking together (bukber) and open houses, especially among officials," he said.

He appealed to the public not to break their fast together outside their homes to minimize crowds, considering that the COVID-19 pandemic situation is still occurring even though it has shown a downward trend in active cases.

"Residents break their fast at home, with their nuclear family. You can buy food outside, but wrap it up and take it home," he said.

He said the government had relaxed restrictions on community activities during Ramadan this year, among others, being allowed to perform Tarawih prayers in congregation in mosques, while still tightening health protocols.

Residents are also allowed to go home for Eid as long as they have been vaccinated with two complete doses plus a booster vaccination.