Residents choose Blok M tourism trip via MRT to make the most of Eid holiday
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Residents are choosing to visit the Blok M area in South Jakarta to make the most of the Eid al-Fitr 1447 H/2026 holiday period by utilising the Jakarta MRT (Moda Raya Terpadu) service.
One passenger, Chika (29), said she deliberately invited her family to holiday in Blok M due to the easy access via MRT, as well as the special Rp1 fare for all routes on Eid al-Fitr Day, Saturday (21/3), and the second day of Eid, Sunday (22/3).
“On the second day of Eid, we’re not going back to our hometown, so we chose to go out in Jakarta instead. We took the MRT because it’s faster and more comfortable, especially with children,” said Chika when met at Blok M MRT Station, Jakarta, on Sunday.
The same sentiment was expressed by Rafi (25), who came with his friends for a culinary tour.
“We’re going to find food in Blok M; there are many viral spots right now. We took the MRT to avoid traffic jams; it’s more practical,” said Rafi.
According to him, public transport is more cost-effective than using private vehicles, especially as roads tend to be busier during the Eid holiday.
“With the crowds during Eid, it’s really unappealing to ride a motorbike or car. Better to take the MRT or other public transport; the fares are cheap, even free, fast, and practical,” Rafi stated.
Meanwhile, Nanda (28) from Depok said she chose the MRT because it is integrated with other modes of transport.
“I’m from outside Jakarta, continuing by MRT because it goes straight to Blok M. It’s convenient; no need to hassle with changing vehicles,” said Nanda.
Observations at several MRT stations heading to Blok M showed an increase in passenger numbers from Sunday afternoon to evening.
Residents crowded the platforms and trains, dominated by families and young people wanting to enjoy the Eid holiday without leaving the city.
Inside the station, queues snaked at the tap-out gates. Passengers appeared orderly in line, although there were occasional slowdowns due to the high volume of users.
MRT staff were on duty at several points to manage the flow and provide reminders to passengers to remain cautious.
Stairs to the exits and escalators were also filled with residents. Many were families carrying children, even the elderly, who could be seen using the lift facilities.
The atmosphere was bustling yet controlled, as visitors maintained distance while moving out of the station.
The crowds were more pronounced outside the station up to the pavements around the Blok M area, which were filled with pedestrians.
Several residents headed straight to culinary centres, coffee shops, and open spaces that are attractions in the area.
Not a few residents paused near the exits to take photos while deciding on their next destination. Some appeared to be wearing typical Eid attire, adding to the festive atmosphere amid the urban bustle.
The Blok M area is known as one of the hubs of resident activities, especially during long holidays. A variety of culinary options, shopping centres, and public spaces are reasons why the area is packed with visitors.
The special Rp1 fare for public transport such as MRT, LRT Jabodebek, and Transjakarta remains in effect until the second day of Eid 2026, Sunday (22/3).
This special fare policy aims to increase public interest in using LRT Jabodebek as a mobility option in urban areas, particularly during the Eid holiday period, which is synonymous with high travel activity.