Interior Minister Tito Urges Regional Heads to Remain on Standby and Provide Best Services During Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri Celebrations
Interior Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has emphasised that all regional heads must remain on standby in their respective jurisdictions to ensure optimal public services during Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri celebrations. This directive aligns with Interior Ministry Circular Number 000.2.3/1171/SJ dated 8 March 2026 concerning the postponement of overseas travel during the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri holiday period.
The policy responds to reports of several regional leaders planning pilgrimage journeys for Umrah near Eid, potentially leaving their districts without their presence during this significant period. As the highest authority in their jurisdictions, regional heads hold executive power and bear responsibility for public services.
“During peak periods of public activity and holidays, we must not take leave. We must be at our peak ensuring that the public can safely conduct their holiday festivities, managing the homecoming and return migrations, controlling prices, and maintaining tourism destinations,” Karnavian stated during a Coordination Meeting on Inflation Control and Regional Government Readiness for Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri/2026 celebrations held in hybrid format from the office of the Riau Islands Governor in Tanjungpinang on Monday (9 March 2026).
He explained that public mobility during the homecoming and return migration periods requires serious attention, as Indonesia is home to the world’s largest Muslim population. The annual Lebaran tradition of returning home causes significant surges in population movement.
Additionally, environmental security requires careful consideration, particularly because many homes are left vacant by their owners during the migration. This necessitates environmental security arrangements and the establishment of checkpoints along migration routes.
“There are homes left unattended, belongings that need protection. Some people may leave their vehicles with neighbours or local ward officials. Checkpoints must be established along homecoming and return migration routes,” Karnavian said.
The Interior Minister also stressed the importance of regional government readiness in ensuring public security and comfort during the Lebaran period. This includes maintaining transportation safety, anticipating congestion at tourist destinations, and ensuring adequate supply and price stability for essential commodities before the holiday.