Scenes from Jakarta Markets After Eid, Overflowing to the Outside

After the Eid al-Fitr holiday, activity in traditional markets generally begins to recover as traders and buyers return to their routines. However, this does not appear to be fully the case in several markets in Jakarta, such as Pasar Rumput in South Jakarta.

Based on observations by CNBC Indonesia at the location on Wednesday (25/3/2026), buying and selling activities inside the market are still not normal. The atmosphere inside the market building appears deserted, with many traders’ stalls still closed.

The market aisles look quiet without significant activity. Only a handful of traders have opened their stalls, while the number of buyers is far fewer than in normal conditions.

One trader, Nuri, said the situation occurred because many traders are still on holiday and have not returned to selling.

“Yes (it’s still quiet), they’re still on holiday. Many went back to their villages this year (the traders),” said Nuri when met at the location.

She also mentioned that several essential goods shops, such as those selling rice, are not yet operating.

“There’s none (open), both I saw are closed, probably opening tomorrow,” she said.

According to Nuri, market activity is likely to return to normal in the coming days.

“It seems like by next Monday it will be busy again. Right now, many are still closed because there are few buyers too. So, we’re just sharing the blessings with those who are still open,” she added.

Lively Atmosphere Outside the Market

However, a different condition is visible in the area outside the market.

Along the roads around Pasar Rumput, buying and selling activities appear more lively. Temporary stalls of street vendors are crowded with buyers shopping or haggling over prices.

One buyer, Eni, admitted to choosing to shop outside the market because it is more practical.

“Sometimes, when I’m too lazy to park inside, I choose to shop outside, because I can just park on the motorbike,” said Eni.

She also revealed that the conditions inside the market are indeed still relatively quiet now.

“For me, yes (just shopping outside), but earlier my neighbour went inside. But she said it was quiet inside too, so she came out again; earlier inside she only bought chillies,” she said.