Austerity urged this Idul Fitri

MATARAM, West Nusa Tenggara: Chairman of the provincial chapter of the Indonesian Council of Ulemas, Ahmad Usman, is appealing to Moslems across the country to celebrate Idul Fitri in simplicity.

"It is not necessary to wear new clothes and serve elaborate dishes. The real essence of Idul Fitri is strengthening one's faith to Allah and friendship with fellow Moslems," Usman said.

He said that according to the Prophet Muhammad, Idul Fitri was a time to bring one closer to Allah and strengthen one's friendships with others.

In Lombok, housewives and their daughters a week before Idul Fitri start baking cookies called poteng and prepare elaborate dishes as the men slaughter goats and cows. Usman said people should not be too extravagant this year.

"If you have an excess of wealth, share it with the poor, the orphans and the aged," he said as quoted by Antara.

He said Indonesia's monetary crisis was a test which should prompt people to examine their ways. (mds)