'I get closer to God'

Idul Fitri is only four days away and many Jakartans have booked their trips home to celebrate the season with family. The Jakarta Post talked to some residents about what Idul Fitri meant to them.

Ferdy, 24, owns a clothes shop in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta. He lives with his parents in Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta:

Idul Fitri is a blessing for me financially. As the celebration approaches, I can earn up to four times more than on normal days because more and more visitors come to my shop -- all buying new clothes for the festivities.

Besides the financial advantages, Idul Fitri also gives me an opportunity to be closer to God. During Ramadhan I have been trying really hard to intensify my ibadah, (adherence to religious practices).

Idul Fitri is also a chance to get closer to my family. I start to feel like coming home every day. Normally I have to travel, often for days, for business.

Multazam, 28, is an employee of a private company in Kebayoran Lama, South Jakarta. He lives in a boarding house in Karet, Central Jakarta:

For me, Idul Fitri means a family gathering with relatives in my hometown in Sragen, Central Java. I always join the mudik (homecoming) tradition several days before the celebration.

At that time my extended family will visit our parents at our old house to ask them for forgiveness. It is always a great time since it happens only once in a year. Unfortunately, my brother in Papua will not be able to join us in this year's Idul Fitri celebration.

Another tradition is that I must also prepare small change to give to my nephews and nieces.

-- The Jakarta Post