Crowding at Tanah Abang Market as Eid Approaches, Filled with Shoppers Hunting for New Clothes
JAKARTA — The Tanah Abang Market area in Central Jakarta is packed with visitors hunting for clothes and various Eid-related supplies ahead of Idul Fitri.
The surge in buyers has caused numerous market lanes and access routes to the shopping centre to be filled with crowds.
Observations by Kompas.com at the location on Monday (16 March 2026) showed the market lanes packed with buyers arriving one after another.
Many visitors were seen carrying large shopping bags filled with clothes, prayer garments (mukena), and other Eid supplies.
The density of human traffic has forced some people to walk slowly, following the crowd. At several points, visitors were even forced to jostle through because human traffic was coming from various directions.
Despite the market feeling cramped, many residents continue to choose to shop at Tanah Abang because prices are considered more affordable and the selection is very diverse.
One visitor, Dedi (41), admitted he is accustomed to crowded conditions at Tanah Abang approaching Eid. According to him, the crowds are not a problem because prices at the market are relatively cheaper.
“It’s certainly very crowded, to the point of having to walk slowly. But there are many choices here and the prices are cheaper,” said Dedi when met at the market area on Monday.
He said he came specifically to purchase several Eid clothes for his family. In one shopping trip, he can obtain several pieces of clothing at a more economical price.
“If I buy four pieces of clothing at once, the difference is almost 50,000 rupiah, which is quite a lot. Four pieces of clothing can save 200,000 rupiah,” said Dedi.
“Here the selection is complete. Whatever style you want, it’s available. So although it’s crowded, it’s still better to shop here,” he said.
Amid the busy shopping activity, some visitors also admitted concern about becoming targets for pickpockets whilst having to jostle amid the crowds.
Nirmala admitted feeling anxious when walking amid the density of visitors.