Makassar City Government Urges Takbiran in Respective Neighbourhoods, Bans Convoys and Firecrackers

In anticipation of the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah night, the Makassar City Government has issued an appeal for residents to conduct Takbiran in their respective neighbourhoods rather than through road convoys. This policy is intended to maintain order, security, and comfort for all citizens of Makassar City. Makassar Mayor Munafri Arifuddin stressed that the public is still given space to proclaim takbir as a form of gratitude and joy in welcoming the day of victory. However, its implementation is directed to take place at the district, sub-district, and local mosque levels. “We urge Takbiran in each neighbourhood at the district level, not circling the main roads. This is a step to maintain order, security, and public comfort,” said Munafri. The Makassar City Government emphasised that no permits will be issued for roaming takbir or vehicle parades on public roads this year. This policy considers the continuously increasing vehicle volume in Makassar City, so convoy activities have the potential to disrupt traffic flow and endanger safety. “Takbir is allowed, either in respective areas, at the district or sub-district level, or in local mosque environments. Of course, there are limitations, without vehicle convoys on public roads, let alone firecrackers or explosives,” Munafri asserted firmly. The ban on firecrackers and explosives is also a special concern. In addition to potentially disturbing residents’ peace, such activities can endanger safety and are not in line with the essence of Takbiran night, which should be a moment of worship. According to Munafri, Takbiran night is ideally filled with increasing dhikr, takbir, and prayer as expressions of gratitude after completing a full month of Ramadan worship. Therefore, Takbiran can be held in residential alleys or at local mosques. “So, Takbiran is not prohibited, but roaming convoys are not allowed, especially using firecrackers or exhausts that disturb road users. We ask that Takbiran be conducted within the scope of respective districts and at local mosques,” Munafri stated. To ensure this appeal runs smoothly, the Makassar City Government involves district heads, sub-district heads, neighbourhood associations, and community leaders in overseeing the implementation of Takbiran. They are asked to participate in monitoring so that activities proceed orderly in their respective environments. Residents can still hold Takbiran activities by coordinating with local authorities. Thus, the Eid al-Fitr night atmosphere is expected to remain lively with worship chants without causing disturbances to road users or other residents. “It is greatly hoped that the public can still celebrate Takbiran night with full solemnity and togetherness, so that the Eid al-Fitr celebration can proceed safely, orderly, and comfortably for all Makassar City residents,” said Munafri. In addition to regulating the implementation of Takbiran, the Makassar City Government will centralise Eid al-Fitr prayers at Karebosi Field. Residents in the surrounding area are invited to perform congregational prayers at the designated location. The Makassar City Government hopes that the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah celebration can proceed with full solemnity, togetherness, while still maintaining city security and order.