'Mudik' and tolerance<\/p>\n
The fasting month of Ramadhan will soon be over, and Islamic
\npeoples all over the world reflect on the values of their
\nreligion as they prepare to celebrate Idul Fitri.<\/p>\n
For most Jakartans, particularly Muslims, Idul Fitri is a
\nspecial day set aside for reunions with relatives and old
\nfriends.<\/p>\n
Residents of the capital want nothing more than to be in their
\nhometowns for the holiday and are prepared to pay extra for bus,
\ntrain, plane or ferry tickets.<\/p>\n
From year to year, the mass departure of residents grows in
\nnumber. It is a phenomenon locally called mudik. The Jakarta
\nTransportation Agency estimates that some 2.5 million people will
\ntravel to their hometowns this year, 60 percent higher than last
\nyear's figure.<\/p>\n
While Islam does not explicitly recommend mudik,
\nit encourages people to come together, to love and know one
\nanother, to forgive one another. Idul Fitri is a day for
\nreflection, devotion, self-control and also a time to share joy
\nand happiness.<\/p>\n
For some, Idul Fitri is a chance to relax or break with
\nroutine. For others, it is a matter of pride. To arrive home
\nladen with gifts is a sign of success, though spreading good
\ndeeds would perhaps be more fitting.<\/p>\n
It is not uncommon for a year's savings to be spent on Idul
\nFitri. On presents -- including cash for relatives -- food and
\nthe journey home.<\/p>\n
According to the transportation agency around 1.6 billion
\npeople will return home via train, bus or private car.
\nAnd, as happens every year, the government is busy making
\ninfrastructure and security preparations.<\/p>\n
As the annual exodus has proved unstoppable the government has
\nno other choice but to improve roads and other services to ensure
\na safe and secure journey for all.<\/p>\n
Mudik is the right of each and every person. However,
\nconsidering their absence over a number of days, the matter of
\nhome security is worthy of attention.<\/p>\n
Those going home by car or motorcycle (usually in large
\ngroups) must abide by the traffic regulations and respect other
\nroad users. That they return safely to their homes is more
\nimportant than the speed of their journey. Life goes on after the
\nfestivities.<\/p>\n
Celebrating holidays at home means big spending, and
\ntherefore, from an economic point of view mudik benefits the
\nvillages. While visitors' money rarely lasts until the end of the
\nholiday, injecting cash into the villages improves the purchasing
\npower of residents.<\/p>\n
People should refrain, however, from buying
\nunnecessary things. Good intention should be encouraged,
\nincluding renouncing any feelings of superiority. They should
\nguide the misled and assist the needy -- perhaps even their
\nneighbors who cannot enjoy the festivities even in a modest way.<\/p>\n
People have been experiencing hardships due to the increase in
\nthe prices of fuel and other commodities. Thus, it is somewhat
\nindifferent to celebrate Idul Fitri in a joyous and prodigal way
\nwhile thousands of people have been left disheartened after
\nlining up for -- or missing out on -- cash aid distributed under
\na government scheme to offset the effects of the fuel price
\nincreases.<\/p>\n
To live without discrimination or distinction is easier said
\nthan done. Just look at the members of the House of
\nRepresentatives as they demand an additional monthly allowance of
\nRp 10 million (US$1,000) while the people struggle to make ends
\nmeet. Considering these bitter realities, Muslims must use Idul
\nFitri as a time to embrace the good aims of their religion and to
\nset examples of tolerance, patience and justice as taught by
\nIslam.<\/p>\n
Wishing all our readers a peaceful and prosperous Idul Fitri.<\/p>\n
Minal aidin walfaidzin.<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/mudik-and-tolerance-1447893297", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }