This Year's Eid Is So Special, Even Though COVID-19 Hasn't Gone Away

All photos in this news are by Wardhany Tsa Tsia/VOI

JAKARTA - After being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic for two years, this year residents can pray Eid al-Fitr at the mosque freely after fasting for one month. Their steps were full of enthusiasm and joy towards the nearest prayer place.

This morning, Tuesday, May 2 at around 06.30 WIB, residents around Jalan Menara Air, Manggarai, South Jakarta rushed to the YWKA 1 Junior High School Field, as monitored by VOI journalists. They will perform Eid prayers 1443 Hijri.

Arriving at the field which is surrounded by school buildings, the residents immediately occupied the space provided. Men are in the line of duty, as are women who are dominated by mothers and young children. They put out the newspapers first to cover their prayer mats.

Exactly at 07.00 WIB, the takbir echoed by the leading priest, namely Ustaz Muhammad Kamili Said. The congregation of Eid prayers who were present and previously had a chance to talk with each other, immediately stood up and prayed.

After the prayer, Budi, who is a resident of Jalan Menara Air, said he was happy to be able to return to Eid prayers in groups like when the COVID-19 pandemic had not yet occurred. Moreover, those who attended the school grounds came from the same neighborhood unit (RW).

"Alhamdulillah, I'm glad this year we can pray as much as before," said Budi while talking to VOI for the Eid prayer on Tuesday, May 2.

Budi said he had longed for an atmosphere like this. "Last year there were also Eid prayers but not as busy as this because they are still limited as recommended by the government," he said.

"This year it's crowded," added Budi, ending the conversation.

Apart from Budi, other residents also seemed enthusiastic about this year's Eid prayer, which felt different from the previous year. Because, after carrying out their worship, they walked back to their respective homes while wishing their neighbors a happy Eid.

Previously reported, the government this year allowed Eid prayer activities in mosques or in the field by implementing health protocols. This is in accordance with the Circular Letter of the Ministry of Religion Number 8 of 2022.

In addition, the government also allows people to return to their hometowns to stay in touch with their families. This easing was carried out because the number of COVID-19 was under control this year.