'This Idul Fitri is really tough financially'

'This Idul Fitri is really tough financially'

Muslims will celebrate the Idul Fitri festivities on Nov. 3 and
Nov. 4. The Jakarta Post talked to a few people about the meaning
of the celebration amid tougher economic times following the
rising price of basic commodities due to the Oct. 1 fuel prices
hike.

Ferry Areza, in his 30s, works as a civil servant with the
Jakarta administration's information and data analysis division.
He lives with his family in Tangerang:

This year's Idul Fitri is really tough, financially, on me. I
have to accept the reality that many of my plans and dreams have
been dashed following the fuel prices rise, which led to the
soaring prices of basic commodities and other products.

I've had to delay my plans to renovate my house and purchase a
new car after the celebration, since I will have no money for
those things. That's made my fasting month really a challenge to
keep my anger in check.

I hope that the economic situation in the country gets better
in the future and the price of crude oil on the world market
declines. That's my prayer during this holy time.

Tinia , in her 40s, works at a city-owned museum in Kota, West
Jakarta. She lives in Ciganjur, South Jakarta with her family:

We'll celebrate this year's Idul Fitri modestly; no big
festivities. None of us in the office received holiday bonuses
this year. Instead, we have to spend money to provide bonuses for
our bosses. It's a really difficult time for me.

I have really felt exhausted in coping with so many hardships
and pressure in the workplace. Maybe it will be better if I ask
to retire early. -- The Jakarta Post