INDONESIAN MUSLIMS CELEBRATE AIDILFITRI JOYOUSLY WITH SIMPLICITY

JAKARTA, March 31 (Bernama) – Muslims in Indonesia celebrated Hari Raya Aidilfitri with family and friends on Monday in a joyous atmosphere filled with hope under the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto.

This year's celebration was also observed with simplicity, reflecting the values encouraged by Prabowo since he assumed office as the eighth president.

Appointed as president on October 21 last year, he is committed to fostering social unity, addressing socio-economic challenges, and strengthening ties within the diverse community.

In his first Aidilfitri message, he urged Indonesians to strengthen unity and work towards a better and more prosperous future.

“I invite all Indonesians, wherever they may be, to make this Hari Raya Aidilfitri a source of strength in reinforcing national unity, strengthening social solidarity, and building a fairer, more prosperous, and ethical future,” he said.

Prabowo also extended Hari Raya greetings to Muslims in Indonesia and around the world, while highlighting the significance of this celebration after a month of fasting.

“Aidilfitri is a time for forgiveness, strengthening relationships, and reaffirming our commitment to becoming better, more patient, and more caring towards the society,” he said, before concluding his message with an apology to all.

This morning, Prabowo, along with Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and cabinet members, joined thousands of Muslims in performing the Aidilfitri Sunnah prayer at Istiqlal Mosque, located in the heart of the metropolitan city.

He then welcomed the public, foreign diplomats, and dignitaries at an open house event at the Merdeka Palace from 9 am to 12 noon, symbolising the close ties between the leader and the people.

Meanwhile, around 200 Malaysians, including expatriates and embassy staff, performed the Hari Raya Aidilfitri Sunnah prayer before enjoying a feast at the multipurpose hall of the embassy complex in South Jakarta.

Also present were Malaysia’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Datuk Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin, and Malaysia’s Permanent Representative to ASEAN, Datin Sarah Al Bakri Devadason.

They were then treated to a feast of nasi briyani, lemang, satay, festive cakes, teh tarik, and other delicacies prepared by the embassy and its staff.

-- BERNAMA