Presidential Palace Issues Circular Restricting Excessive Ministry Open House Celebrations During Eid

JAKARTA — The Presidential Palace has sent a circular letter to all government ministries and institutions directing them to avoid excessive celebrations during their open house events and Halal Bihalal festivities for Eid al-Fitr 1447 H (2026).

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that the circular was issued in response to instructions from President Prabowo Subianto delivered during a full cabinet session on Friday, 13 March 2026.

“Yesterday, following the President’s guidance, we issued a circular letter to all ministries and institutions urging them not to be excessive in organising open house events or Halal Bihalal celebrations,” said Prasetyo following a coordination meeting at the Ministry of Defence in Central Jakarta on Tuesday, 17 March 2026.

“Because regardless, there are still many of our fellow citizens facing difficult circumstances. Therefore, we are urging restraint when organising open house or Halal Bihalal activities,” he added.

When asked whether further measures would be taken, Prasetyo responded: “Not yet. We will assess the situation as it develops.”

Previously, President Prabowo Subianto had directed government officials against organising lavish open house celebrations during this year’s Eid al-Fitr festivities, noting that many members of the public remain affected by disasters.

“We should also set an example—our open house events should not be too lavish,” the President stated during a cabinet session at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Friday, 13 March 2026.

“However, we should not completely cancel all events either. If we do, our economy will suffer as well,” he added.