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Ailyn Agonia
Doha
IFTAR with friends and relatives, charity works, spending nights in masjids, devotion and self-reflection are some of the common traditions of Indonesians during the Holy Month of Ramadan, said Ambassador of Indonesia to Qatar HE Muhammad Basri Sidehabi.
In a recent interview with Qatar Tribune, the ambassador said that during Ramadan most Indonesians also give emphasis to odd-numbered days of the holy month as an effort to reach the 1,000 months night (Laylatul Qadr).
"Indonesia is home to 209 million Muslims, the largest Muslim population in the world. Indonesia also has over 300 ethnic groups with each group having its own unique set of traditions. Yet, when it comes to Ramadan, there is one common tradition that binds all these groups together," he added.
The ambassador continued,"Just like Muslims in any other part of the world, Indonesian nationals view Ramadan as a time for reflection, to be closer to Allah and to be thankful for The Almighty's abundant blessings on ourselves, families and friends. Hence, we take this opportunity to reconnect to The Almighty, to seek forgiveness for our mistakes and transgressions."
Recently, the Embassy of Indonesia in Doha hosted a gathering for the nationals to mark the beginning of Ramadan. Around 160 community members attended the event graced by noted Indonesian preacher Ustaz Zulkifli Muhammad Ali from Indonesia.
"There are at least three well-known Ustaz from Indonesia visiting Qatar during Ramadan. Ustaz Zulkifli will be in Qatar for the first 10 days of Ramadan, followed by Ustaz Dr Khalid Basalamah and then Ustaz Ahzami Sami'un Jazuli. Indonesian community in Qatar is waiting to hear these preachers who will hold daily briefings on various topics well suited to the month of reflection. On June 11, the Embassy of Indonesia is once again scheduled to hold a gathering to celebrate Nuzulul Quran," the ambassador said.
Speaking about traditions related to Eid celebrations in Indonesia, Sidehabi said that Indonesian nationals observe 'mudik', a tradition that literally means going 'home' to the village. People travel hundreds of kilometres to be with their parents and grandparents to mark the tradition. It is their way of acknowledging their roots and introducing their children to their lineage and history, he pointed out.
"On behalf of the people and government of Indonesia, I extend my best wishes and prayers to Muslim communities here in Qatar in welcoming the blessed month of Ramadan. The season is a time for self-reflection and devotion, an occasion when Muslims reaffirm their commitment to helping the less fortunate. It is the perfect time for learning the meaning of life, for loving the universe. It is also a time to be grateful for Allah's immeasurable blessings."
The ambassador concluded,"Besides, Ramadan is also a festive occasion as families and communities fast and breaks their fast together during iftar. They also join one another in prayer in mosques. It is certainly a joyous time for us all. Ramadan Kareem!"
