Draft:Ramadan in Indonesia
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Ramadan in Indonesia is a vibrant and spiritual period, deeply rooted in the country's cultural fabric. As the nation with the largest Muslim population globally, over 200 million Muslims (approximately 244.7 million Muslims, or 87% of its total population) observe this holy month with a unique blend of religious devotion and cultural traditions. Ramadan is marked by unique cultural traditions, communal prayers, and festive celebrations. The month involves fasting from dawn to sunset, increased charity, and spiritual reflection.
Pre-Ramadan traditions
[edit]Before the commencement of Ramadan, Indonesian families engage in thorough cleaning of their homes, a practice known locally as "bersih-bersih".[1] Indonesians also prepare for Ramadan with various regional customs that blend Islamic practices with local cultures like:
Cucurak: A tradition in Sundanese culture involves gathering with extended family to have fun and celebrate the arrival of Ramadan.[2]
Belimau: In Bangka Belitung and Riau, communities partake in a purification ritual involving bathing with limau (citrus) water to cleanse the body and spirit before the holy month.[3][4]
Nyadran: Predominantly in Java, families visit ancestral graves to clean the sites, offer prayers, and lay flowers, honoring their forebears ahead of Ramadan.[5]
Dugderan Festival: Held in Semarang, this carnival features the parading of the "Warak ngendog," a mythical creature symbolizing harmony, to signal the approaching Ramadan.[6]
Daily practices during Ramadan
[edit]Fasting (sawm) is observed from dawn (sahur) to sunset (iftar), with Muslims engaging in additional prayers such as Tarawih at night. Mosques often host communal prayers and Quranic recitations, fostering a sense of unity and devotion.[7]
In urban areas, especially among youth, the "Sahur on the Road" tradition involves groups distributing pre-dawn meals to the less fortunate or sharing meals together in public spaces, emphasizing charity and community spirit.[8]
Culinary traditions
[edit]Ramadan in Indonesia is marked by a variety of traditional foods and beverages that are especially popular during the holy month like:
Takjil: Sweet snacks and drinks consumed to break the fast, including kolak (a dessert made from coconut milk, palm sugar, and fruits), es buah (fruit cocktail), and cendol (a jelly-like dessert served with coconut milk and palm sugar syrup).[9]
Iftar Gatherings: Communal breaking of the fast is common, with mosques and community centers often providing free meals, fostering a sense of togetherness and charity.[10]
Economic and social impact
[edit]Markets and shopping centers experience increased activity as people prepare for iftar and Eid celebrations. However, concerns about inflation and overconsumption have led authorities to collaborate with religious leaders to promote moderation.[11]
Spending Trends: A 2025 YouGov survey found 55% of Indonesians use their Tunjangan Hari Raya (THR, annual holiday bonus) for savings, while 51% donate to charity.[12]
Inflation Concerns: The central bank collaborates with clerics to curb overconsumption and price surges during Ramadan.[11]
Festive Commerce: Hotels and malls offer Ramadan promotions, and markets sell Lebaran staples like opor ayam (chicken in coconut curry).[13][14]
Challenges
[edit]Economic Pressures: Rising food prices (e.g., rice, chili) and uncertainty over THR bonuses affect low-income families.[13][12][15]
Health Adjustments: Fatigue from altered sleep schedules and dietary changes is common.[16]
References
[edit]- ^ https://www.rri.co.id/voi/hobi/1345912/embracing-ramadan-indonesia-s-distinctive-traditions-and-preparations
- ^ https://www.rri.co.id/en/art-and-culture/1363848/eight-unique-welcoming-ramadan-traditions-across-indonesia?__cf_chl_rt_tk=z6tulknJpP74aAMq4flVnmznD_MpYTudpVZzymmviJg-1744650691-1.0.1.1-Fka3hqkQ5eT24LSlqer0bnnHEAkaA50vUFax9e.uuo8
- ^ "'Balimau': A fading tradition | the Jakarta Post".
- ^ Times, I. D. N.; Andri, Alfath. "Petang Belimau, Tradisi Melayu Riau Menyucikan Diri Sambut Ramadan". IDN Times.
- ^ Jakarta, Indoindians (February 25, 2025). "8 Unique Traditions to Welcome Ramadan in Indonesia".
- ^ Sejarah, Mata (April 12, 2017). "Tradisi Dugderan di Kota Semarang - Mata Sejarah". Mata Sejarah. Archived from the original on 12 April 2017.
- ^ "Ramadan Around The World: Celebrating Ramadan in Indonesia - Muslim Pro". www.muslimpro.com. March 19, 2024.
- ^ Wibawana, Widhia Arum. "Apa Itu Sahur on the Road? Begini Asal-usul hingga Larangannya". detiknews.
- ^ "Takjil: The Delicious Tradition of Iftar". 21 March 2024.
- ^ "Mass iftar brings together thousands of Muslims at Jakarta's Istiqlal mosque". AP News. March 18, 2025.
- ^ a b Sulaiman, Stefanno (11 March 2025). "At Ramadan, Indonesia offers sermons on inflation to keep a lid on prices". Reuters.
- ^ a b "Ramadan 2025: How Indonesians plan to spend, save, and give | Marketing". Campaign Asia.
- ^ a b "Millions of Muslims in Indonesia mark the start of the holy month of Ramadan". AP News. March 1, 2025.
- ^ S, Fidyanita (March 10, 2025). "Ramadan in Indonesia 2025: What to Prepare".
- ^ Lahi, Lauri (February 21, 2024). "Understanding the Religious Holiday Allowance THR in Indonesia". Emerhub.
- ^ "Ramadan In Bali And Indonesia: Everything You Need To Know". FINNS Beach Club. February 14, 2024.
External links
[edit]
Media related to Ramadan in Indonesia at Wikimedia Commons
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