Palembang residents gather at Ampera Bridge for Eid al-Adha 1447 H prayers

Tens of thousands of Palembang residents in South Sumatra performed Eid al-Adha prayers at Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin Mosque and along Ampera Bridge on Wednesday morning.

Worshippers began filling the city’s iconic landmark from 6:00 AM WIB. Prayer lines stretched along the entire bridge, connecting the Ulu and Ilir districts, which were temporarily closed to facilitate the religious event.

The Eid al-Adha 1447 H prayers were attended by Palembang Mayor Ratu Dewa and local Forum for Coordination of Regional Leadership (Forkopimda) members. Ustadz Abdul Siddiq led the prayers with solemnity, followed by a sermon on the significance of sacrifice and sincerity.

Herlen, a 23-year-old resident of Pakjo, Palembang, said he arrived early with his family to secure a spot on the bridge. “Praying on Ampera Bridge has a unique charm. Even though we had to lay prayer mats on the asphalt, it was incredible to worship alongside tens of thousands of others with the Musi River as the backdrop,” he said.

Similarly, Hana, a 24-year-old from Kertapati, Palembang, said the Eid al-Adha event on the bridge consistently strengthens community bonds. “The atmosphere was peaceful and serene this morning. Despite the crowds, all worshippers remained orderly. This is a moment that always makes one miss Palembang,” Hana added.

Meanwhile, the Eid sacrifice committee at Palembang’s Grand Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin Mosque prepared 2,000 meat distribution coupons for residents near the mosque. Palembang Grand Mosque Secretary M. Iqbal stated the coupons were specifically allocated for local residents to ensure orderly and targeted meat distribution. “We prioritise residents around the mosque. This year, 15 cows and seven goats have been registered and prepared for sacrifice,” he said.